Burger 21, an award-winning, "beyond the better burger" fast-casual franchise, signed a new franchise agreement with an existing Burger 21 franchisee to develop one restaurant in the North Ridge Shopping Center located in North Raleigh, North Carolina. To date, Burger 21 has 19 restaurants open, including two restaurants in North Carolina, and more than 20 franchised locations in development across the country.
"Over the last four years, we've been successful in identifying and establishing our brand's presence in new markets, and our track record suggests a very promising future for the brand's development," says Mark Johnston, Burger 21 founder and president. "Both Keith and Mitch have strong multiunit franchise backgrounds and we look forward to working with them to expand their portfolio and grow their business."
Local residents and existing Burger 21 franchisees Mitch Neal and Keith Smith plan to open the North Ridge restaurant in spring of 2016. In June, the entrepreneurs opened their first Burger 21 restaurant in Cary, North Carolina, located at 14220 Bradford Green Square.
"Since opening the doors to our first restaurant six months ago, Burger 21 has been well received by the community and we are eager to open our second location in North Ridge," Neal says. "I've worked in the foodservice industry for many years and Burger 21 is truly unlike any better burger concept out there. There is still tremendous opportunity within the market and we are excited to introduce more people to the brand's variety of menu options and make a positive impact on the community."
Burger 21 is actively seeking qualified franchisees to expand its national footprint in North Carolina and across the country.
Burger 21 was named one of QSR's "Best Franchise Deals" of 2014.
As the brand continues to expand across the U.S., 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 $600,000 and liquid assets of at least $250,000 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 $428,247–$1,085,164. The initial franchise fee is $40,000; however, reduced franchise fees apply for veterans, minorities, and area development agreements of four or more units.
