Quaker Steak & Lube® is a brand that creates a lot of excitement among consumers, and as the company expands, it’s looking for high-energy operators to keep the enthusiasm alive.
Since its founding in 1974, the chain has been one of a kind in the casual dining sector. The name comes from its humble beginnings in an abandoned gas station, and to this day the automotive theme remains an integral part of the brand. Restaurant interiors feature classic car, race car, sports car, and motorcycle memorabilia, and locations often play host to local car club events, cruise-ins, bike nites, and sports car shows.
“It’s really a destination restaurant,” says CEO and co-founder George Warren. “We have lots of activities and events, and it drives a lot of volume.”
The chain’s famous chicken wings and line of custom award-winning sauces have earned it the title “Best Wings USA,” and customers of all ages come for the food and stay for the atmosphere. Families are attracted to the kids meal program that is served in a Lube Cruiser, and alcoholic beverage service—which accounts for about 20 to 22 percent of overall business—brings a young adult crowd into later hours.
“We’re sort of a category-of-one-type restaurant in that we cover so many bases,” Warren says. “If you want to work it, you can really work it well and do a lot of things in your restaurants.”
Annual sales volumes put The Lube® in the top tenth percentile for casual dining establishments. There are currently 27 Quaker Steak & Lube restaurants in 10 states, with higher concentrations in Pennsylvania and Ohio. The chain is on track to open seven more in 2008, working toward a goal of 50 locations by the end of 2010. Area development agreements, with a preferred commitment of three restaurants, are available in a number of markets throughout the country, including New York, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, South Carolina, Georgia, and parts of Texas and Arizona.
Potential franchisees should have experience in the restaurant industry, and knowledge of the casual dining sector is a definite plus. The company also looks for around $10 million in net worth from an individual or small group of investors to initiate startup. Building costs for traditional stores run around $3 million, but non-traditional locations—such as those customized for airports, stadiums, and universities—are also available.
Those who qualify can get in with an exciting and versatile concept that has a lot of room to grow.
For more information about franchising opportunities with Quaker Steak & Lube, visit www.quakersteak.com or call 724-981-6571.