Fazoli's announced a 5.1 percent same-store sales increase at its franchise-owned restaurants during its fiscal year second quarter ending September 30. Additionally, the company has now experienced 14 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth.
"We are pleased to report Fazoli's continued sales growth for the first half of 2016," says Carl Howard, president and chief executive officer of Fazoli's. "The key to our company's success has been listening to and understanding our guests' tastes and preferences and adjusting our brand strategy accordingly. In the last 12 months, we have upgraded our menu, launched a best-in-class catering program, and are in the process of rolling out new guest-facing technology with more updates forthcoming. There has truly never been a better time for our brand and it is showing in our sales trends and strong franchise development."
In addition to robust sales growth, Fazoli's experienced its most successful franchise grand opening to date in September. Fueled by guest nostalgia, Fazoli's marked its return to Warner Robins, Georgia, after nearly two decades of absence. To date, the company has opened 10 new restaurants across the country with plans to open an additional two locations by the end of the year.
Furthermore, Fazoli's franchisees are experiencing nearly three times the industry average growth rate, with new franchised restaurants continually setting new company-wide records. To further attest to the brand's success, Fazoli's has produced positive same-store sales growth in 17 of the last 18 quarters.
"The team and I remained focused on food quality and service and we remain passionate about elevating both of these areas in 2017," continues Howard.
In 2011, Fazoli's underwent a major brand overhaul with the introduction of real plateware and silverware in lieu of foam plates and plastic cutlery. As part of the brand refresh, earlier this year, Fazoli's began remodeling some of its locations with a new, contemporary look and feel. In addition, the company introduced an upgraded menu using premium ingredients, which has been well received by guests. This, coupled with the company's strong performance, continues to drive its expansion. To further catapult the brand's development nationwide, Fazoli's is targeting new markets for expansion including Atlanta, Cincinnati, Dallas, Detroit, Knoxville, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, and several other cities.
With nearly 220 restaurants in 24 states, Fazoli's is America's largest Italian fast-casual chain, serving freshly prepared entrees, Submarinos sandwiches, salads and pizza. Fazoli's franchisees are experiencing record sales growth, and the company is currently seeking single- and multi-unit operators to join the brand's rapid expansion.
