Burger 21 announced its first Atlanta location, which opened three weeks ago, experienced record sales in its first two weeks of operation.

To build on this momentum and enable further growth for the brand in the Metro Atlanta area, Burger 21 will be exhibiting at the Franchise Business Operations Expo in Atlanta, on September 7 and 8 at the Cobb Galleria Center.

In addition, the Tampa, Florida–based franchise will host on September 8 an Executive Roundtable at the Buford Burger 21 restaurant for qualified candidates who are interested in learning more about growth opportunities in the market.    

“We’ve already seen great success with our first Burger 21 restaurant in Atlanta, and continue to see strong interest in our brand throughout the market,” says Dan Stone, vice president of franchise development for Front Burner Brands, management company for Burger 21. 

“As part of our aggressive growth strategy, we will be in the market for a few days and want to offer interested Atlanta entrepreneurs the opportunity to experience Burger 21 firsthand,” he adds. “Once they try one of our 21 chef-inspired burgers in our family-friendly atmosphere, they will better understand the value of the investment and what separates Burger 21 from the competition.”

Atlanta-based franchisees Corley and Meg Steward recently opened the first Burger 21 restaurant in the market. Joining Burger 21’s development team at the Executive Roundtable, Corley Steward will share their journey to franchise ownership and personal experiences since opening their first restaurant.

“We’re really looking forward to sharing our passion for the brand with other entrepreneurs in the area,” Steward says. “From the signing of our initial agreement to the restaurant’s grand opening, we truly appreciate the continuous support from the Front Burner Brands team. We also are excited to develop a second location in the Atlanta market next year.” 

To date, Burger 21 has nine open locations and 17 franchised restaurants in development across the country. Since launching its aggressive growth plan in fall 2011, Burger 21 has signed franchise agreements with 12 different entities in nine states to develop a total of 22 franchised units in cities across the country.

Burger 21 is seeking single- and multiunit operators with restaurant experience to join its upscale fast-casual dining concept. Franchisee candidates should have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and liquid assets of at least $200,000 per unit.

Burger 21 will be developed through both single-unit agreements and Area Development Agreements. Depending on the real estate site selected, franchisees can expect the total investment for one restaurant to be approximately $414,495–$831,995. The initial franchise fee is $40,000; however, reduced franchise fees apply for Area Development Agreements of four or more units. 

Burgers, Denise Lee Yohn: QSR's Marketing Guru, Finance, Growth, News, Burger 21