Killer Burger, the famed Portland-based rock ‘n roll burger hangout, announced it has inked two franchise agreements with existing multi-unit operators to open additional locations in the Pacific Northwest. One of the locations will be in Southwest Portland and the other in Vancouver, Washington.
Former University of Oregon football star LaMichael James will be opening the Southwest Portland restaurant. James started with Killer Burger in 2019 when he opened the first location in Beaverton, Oregon.
“Even during my playing career, I knew I had to start planning for life after football. I wanted to make sure I was smart with my money and made an investment with the right business venture,” says James. “Killer Burger immediately put itself ahead of the others with its great food, vibes and corporate team support. After the success of my first restaurant, opening a second location was always in the cards for me.”
Nate Barile will lead the new Vancouver restaurant. Barile also owns the Hazel Dell location, which he took ownership of in early 2020. He started with Killer Burger as a general manager and worked his way up to becoming a franchisee.
“It’s been a long-term goal of mine to get into multi-unit ownership with a second location, and it’s exciting to see that come to fruition,” adds Barile. “I’ve been very pleased with the returns from the investment in my first store and look forward to what a second location will bring. My future with Killer Burger looks bright.”
Adding these locations is part of Killer Burger’s strategic franchising initiative to expand its presence. The strategy starts with a focus on franchising throughout the Pacific Northwest, with regionally adjacent markets such as Denver, Boise and Reno also being targeted for new restaurants.
“Despite the challenges faced by many in the past several months, we’ve been fortunate enough to expand our footprint with the help of our existing franchise owners,” says TJ Southard, CEO and founder of Killer Burger. “It’s a testament to the strong relationships we’ve been able to grow with these individuals that make it all possible. I have the utmost faith in LaMike and Nate as they build upon our strong foundation.”
Following its “commit to the burger” operating principle, which embodies everything from burger menu innovation to how the burgers are prepped and eaten, Killer Burger’s menu contains a mix of classic and original tastes. All burgers are served with fries and come topped with bacon and select proprietary sauces. And, with the example of fan favorite Peanut Butter Pickle Bacon Burger, creativity and tradition collide perfectly on the menu. Each Killer Burger location also offers crafts beers and ciders on draft or to-go.
Originating in Portland, Killer Burger has made its mark with its meticulously crafted and award-winning burgers that redefine the true American diner burger. With 11 existing locations across Oregon and Washington, the brand has its eyes set on expanding its presence in the Pacific Northwestern region and beyond over the next five years through strategic franchising efforts.