Bubbakoo’s Burritos (Bubbakoo’s), the New Jersey-based brand known for its innovative Mexican-fusion menu, held its first franchise conference in the brand’s 15-year history, bringing together its franchisees, vendor partners and corporate team. Key points discussed throughout the conference included the brand’s consistent franchise growth, impressive systemwide sales, innovative marketing programs, operational enhancements, and standout franchisees Bubbakoo’s presented with awards.

The conference, held in Atlantic City, gathered Bubbakoo’s franchisees from across the country to celebrate many successes, with a special focus on the brand’s evolution and growth into new markets. The two-day celebration included educational seminars, planning discussions for the next year and a networking event where franchisees interacted with colleagues and suppliers firsthand.

“We truly appreciate our entire Bubbakoo’s team,” said Paul Altero, co-founder of Bubbakoo’s Burritos. “This has been an event years in the making and it’s so rewarding to see it come to life in our brand’s home state. Having the opportunity to celebrate 15 years of milestones and growth while also honoring franchisees who have played an important role in our journey, fills us with immense satisfaction and pride. We look forward to the years ahead as we continue to expand, innovate and serve new and existing communities.”

Bubbakoo’s bestowed honors on top-performing restaurant owners and their team members in attendance for development, sales, community, customer relations, and operations. Several Bubbakoo’s owners earned significant awards. Honorees from the conference include:

·  Founders Award – Jerry and Steve Finnegan (Bubbakoo’s Burritos of Mount Olive, Bartonsville PA & Sparta, NJ)

·  Largest Developer – Perry and Fenil Patel (12 Total Restaurants across CT, NY, NJ with more in development)

·  Highest Volume – Hamin Patel (Bubbakoo’s Burritos of Poughkeepsie, New Windsor & New Paltz, NY)

·  Highest Same Store Sales Increase — Mike Goodwin, Tracey Garrison and Chris Rumsby (Bubbakoo’s Burritos of Tampa, FL)

·  Top Community Involvement – Jalpesh Chokshi (Bubbakoo’s Burritos of Clark, Livingston & Berkeley Heights, NJ)

During the gathering, the Bubbakoo’s corporate leadership team shared several brand updates. It included showcasing that the company has welcomed over 12 new restaurants thus far in 2023, putting the concept at 111 locations total. With a goal of reaching 200 locations within the next 3 years, the innovative brand expects to open an additional 25 restaurants in 2024. Other notable figures include an increase in yearly systemwide sales, up 36.5% overall from 2022 and ranking above other competitors within the fast-casual segment. Moreover, a 55% increase in units compared to 2022.

The concept also celebrated its impressive new website and new app, which aims to drive and consistently increase digital traffic and ordering capabilities. Similarly, the brand is strategically focusing on launching influencer campaigns, Hulu streaming ads and high-impact sponsorships such as its latest with Rutgers University. They have also launched exclusive marketing promotions kicking off in October surrounding National Taco Day.

Fresh off the conference, Bubbakoo’s Burritos is looking forward to opening additional restaurants before the end of 2023 and will enter 2024 with a strong pipeline. A testament to the brand’s development efforts in recent years, Bubbakoo’s Burritos also celebrated ranking on Entrepreneur magazine’s list of “Fastest-Growing Franchises” as well as the Inc 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America list.