The Texas restaurant market is cooking—according to the National Restaurant Association, the state's restaurants are projected to register $42.6 billion in sales and will employ 10 percent of the state's workforce. Johnny Rockets, with several locations already thriving in the market, has enacted growth and development strategies for expanding further into Texas.
"Customers and potential owners are expressing a greater interest in the brand, which makes sense," says James Walker, chief development officer of Johnny Rockets. "We boast 28 years of global recognition, a menu featuring high-quality, fresh hamburgers and a fun and entertaining environment. Our customers are loyal and diverse. They are attracted to the modern Americana feel in each restaurant."
While Johnny Rockets, acquired by Sun Capital Partners Inc. in 2013, plans to target the entire state, the company is immediately focused on markets in the largest cities: Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio.
"These hubs are well-known destinations and provide a variety of potential locations," Walker says. "Our flexible footprints range from 700–7,000 square feet. "
Through the remainder of 2014, Johnny Rockets plans to open more than 60 restaurants around the world. By 2017, Johnny Rockets plans to add 100 more restaurants in the U.S.