Wahlburgers, a burger restaurant founded by brothers Mark, Donnie, and Paul Wahlberg and subject of the popular A&E TV reality series, announced multiunit franchise deals in Florida and New York, continuing its rapid expansion in North America.
Davgar Holdings Group LLC will open 20 Wahlburgers throughout Florida over the next several years, as New York–based Big Apple Burgers prepares to launch six restaurants in Manhattan and one on Coney Island.
Since its 2011 debut in Hingham, Massachusetts, Wahlburgers has a total of 40 stores either open or under agreement. A second location opened in Toronto last month to great fanfare, and franchise agreements are secured in Philadelphia and Las Vegas in addition to Florida and New York. Two corporate-run Wahlburgers are slated to open in the Greater Boston area in 2015.
“These agreements put us closer to our vision of making Wahlburgers a happy part of people's lives across America and around the world,” Mark Wahlberg says. “Donnie, Paul, and I appreciate the support of our fans and all those who love great burgers.”
“We are pleased to continue to grow with great partners who share our values and standards for delivering an exceptional customer experience,” says Rick Vanzura, CEO of Wahlburgers.
Vanzura says Wahlburgers is committed to partnering with experienced operators with a demonstrated history of multi-unit success. Manny Garcia of Davgar Holdings Group LLC and John Cestare and partners of Big Apple Burgers meet the criteria.
“The Garcia family has been steeped in the food and restaurant industry for many years," says Manny Garcia, well-known Florida restaurateur and managing partner of Davgar Holdings Group LLC. "And now, we are thrilled to partner with the Wahlbergs, another family that's equally dedicated to high quality food, legendary service, and delighted guests."
“We’re confident that our knowledge and expertise will be a great asset to the Wahlburgers brand,” says John Cestare of Big Apple Burgers. “It’s exciting to partner with the Wahlberg family and brand knowing we share the same values and family-work culture.”
The Florida and New York restaurants will share all the signature characteristics of the flagship Wahlburgers in Hingham, including full-serve and quick-serve dining options, take-out, and a full bar.
