Checkers and Rally’s, the double drive-thru burger and fries’ brand just opened its newest restaurant in Indiana situated at West 10th Street. The Indianapolis location is co-owned by local entrepreneurs, Fred Kaufman and Don Tharp, bringing a mouthwatering dining experience to the local community.
Kaufman, a seasoned entrepreneur in the fast-food industry, began his professional journey at a Chicago-based drive-in in August 1962. A fortuitous friendship with the owner became a pivotal mentorship, and his association with the original franchisees of Burger King during college laid the groundwork for his future success. Kaufman worked at Burger King in 1965 in Gary, IN and then over a decade later acquired seven locations and eventually amassed 45 in central Indiana by 2005. After eventually selling, he delved into Rally’s, opening his first location in 2012 at 4905 Kentucky Ave. Currently, Kaufman is hands-on in the day-to-day operations of both Indianapolis stores, dedicating six days a week to ensure their success.
“I tell people I have a Ph.D. in hamburgers, which shows how much of a connoisseur I am about Checkers and Rally’s, specifically because of its drive-thru concept and affordable value,” says Kaufman. “My commitment extends beyond my current ventures, as I envision expansion with the brand alongside my family and have plans to open additional stores with them in the years ahead.”
This latest restaurant highlights the continued growth of the brand, with an updated prototype look and a simplified operating model to better service the community. With this new restaurant, the double drive-thru ensures quick and efficient service, providing a hassle-free dining experience for Indianapolis locals.
“Checkers and Rally’s dedication to navigating the dynamic market in Indiana is what draws in remarkable franchisees,” says Robert Bhagwandat, Senior Director of Franchise Development at Checkers Drive-In Restaurants. “Fred’s tenure in the restaurant industry and passion for the food align seamlessly with our mission, and we eagerly anticipate supporting his journey in introducing the Checkers and Rally’s experience to Indianapolis and beyond.”
Merged in 1999 to form one concept, Checkers and Rally’s primarily operates through a proven franchise model, in which owners benefit from brand recognition, operational support and marketing resources. Potential franchise prospects can develop on less than half of an acre, which is half the size of competing drive-thru concepts. Checkers and Rally’s current strategy is targeting select markets throughout the United States, particularly in Wisconsin, Ohio, New York New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, Las Vegas, Arizona, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
