Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks announces a strategic partnership with former PepsiCo president Derek Lewis, marking a 10-unit expansion into Florida—a notable milestone. Soon, Floridians will enjoy the iconic flavors of Philadelphia, not only through their famous cheesesteaks but also with their acclaimed cheesesteak egg rolls, featuring top-notch beef, chicken, and salmon.
The partnership began when Derrick Hayes, the founder of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, sought to expand his business at an entrepreneurial leadership event. This led to an introduction to Derek Lewis, sparking a conversation that would lay the foundation for a lasting partnership.
“Meeting Derek felt like an instant connection. Growing up in Philly, Pepsi’s always been our go-to. When he learned about Big Dave’s and our journey, we became fast friends.” “Honestly, there are no words to capture how pumped I am about this franchise deal – this partnership is about to set the brand on fire.” Says Hayes.
Lewis, expressing his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stated, ‘We’re kicking off what’s going to be an exciting and long-term partnership. When Derrick announced the franchising deal, I was genuinely intrigued. After meeting Derrick and visiting Big Dave’s for the very first time, it just clicked for me – this place deserves to be everywhere in the U.S., and now it’s happening.” Lewis is targeting locations in Lake, Brevard, Volusia, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties.
Hayes has only been accepting franchise applications for only a few months and is making a significant step toward realizing his goal of signing 100 franchise locations by the end of 2025. With a solid team in place, the brand is fully equipped to support franchisees. As disclosed more fully in its 2023 Franchised Disclosure Document, one (1) of the brand’s affiliate locations generated $3,555,129 in net sales over the past 18 months, with a second affiliate location generating $2,044,918 over that same period. Amid an expansion spree across Georgia and a presence in Mercedes Benz Stadium, home to the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks is set to open a new location in Charlotte, North Carolina, this Spring.
Originating as Big Dave’s Water Ice in a gas station in Dunwoody, Georgia, in 2014, the brand evolved from Italian ice to cheesesteaks after initial struggles. The turning point occurred when fellow Philadelphian Eve endorsed Hayes’ cheesesteaks, causing a surge in business. Hayes, inspired by his late father, strives to establish Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks in major cities nationwide and is actively seeking franchisees who share his vision of community, peace, and culture. For more information on franchise opportunities with Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, visit
https://www.bigdavesfranchise.com/
