What do a Mexican concept, a sandwich chain and a classic American deli have in common? All under the Focus Brands portfolio, Moe’s Southwest Grill, McAlister’s Deli, and Schlotzsky’s are successful fast-casual brands that have stood the test of time, reaping benefits for franchisees while growing in favor among diners. Although significantly different, these brands use similar recipes for success to help franchisees thrive, fulfill consumer demands, and adapt to an ever-changing world.
For Moe’s Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky’s, and McAlister’s Deli, menu innovation is always top of mind. Constantly evolving ingredients and offerings to stay ahead of industry trends and keep guests coming back is critical. Following the pandemic, Moe’s revitalized its menu options and introduced a “Greatest Hits” menu featuring more fan-favorite burritos, such as the Moe Meat Moe Cheese burrito and the Edgy Veggie, as well as a new line of sauces that explore a variety of flavors outside of the brand’s previous wheelhouse. This massive menu overhaul is just one of the ways these brands have created competitive menus with something for everyone, ultimately benefiting franchisees.
Additionally, the adaptability of these brands’ menus enables catering to serve as a valuable additional revenue stream for franchise owners. The loveable, well-known traditions of Moe’s, Schlotszky’s, and McAlister’s can flex to provide the perfect offerings for work lunches, graduations, birthday parties, and other special events while simultaneously opening areas for growth and expansion beyond the traditional store. For McAlister’s, reintroducing breakfast catering in 2022 allowed the brand to capitalize on readily available ingredients and products in-store to expand its menu architecture, while establishing a unique competitive edge that grows its catering business in all dayparts.
LOCATIONS PER BRANDS OF MARCH 26, 2023:
McAlister’s Deli: More than 520
Moe’s Southwest Grill: 625
Schlotzsky’s: More than 320
What do a Mexican concept, a sandwich chain and a classic American deli have in common? All under the Focus Brands portfolio, Moe’s Southwest Grill, McAlister’s Deli, and Schlotzsky’s are successful fast-casual brands that have stood the test of time, reaping benefits for franchisees while growing in favor among diners. Although significantly different, these brands use similar recipes for success to help franchisees thrive, fulfill consumer demands, and adapt to an ever-changing world.
For Moe’s Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky’s, and McAlister’s Deli, menu innovation is always top of mind. Constantly evolving ingredients and offerings to stay ahead of industry trends and keep guests coming back is critical. Following the pandemic, Moe’s revitalized its menu options and introduced a “Greatest Hits” menu featuring more fan-favorite burritos, such as the Moe Meat Moe Cheese burrito and the Edgy Veggie, as well as a new line of sauces that explore a variety of flavors outside of the brand’s previous wheelhouse. This massive menu overhaul is just one of the ways these brands have created competitive menus with something for everyone, ultimately benefiting franchisees.
Additionally, the adaptability of these brands’ menus enables catering to serve as a valuable additional revenue stream for franchise owners. The loveable, well-known traditions of Moe’s, Schlotszky’s, and McAlister’s can flex to provide the perfect offerings for work lunches, graduations, birthday parties, and other special events while simultaneously opening areas for growth and expansion beyond the traditional store. For McAlister’s, reintroducing breakfast catering in 2022 allowed the brand to capitalize on readily available ingredients and products in-store to expand its menu architecture, while establishing a unique competitive edge that grows its catering business in all dayparts.
With a shared commitment to fueling growth, Moe’s, Schlotzsky’s, and McAlister’s each offer stores that are designed to fit almost anywhere, complete with advanced digital structures that help to simplify restaurant operations and increase guest satisfaction. Schlotzsky’s two most recent prototype developments, the Design 1000 and Design 1800, provide flexibility and accessibility for a variety of retail spaces in both new and established markets, further expanding its footprint across the country.
As consumer expectations rapidly evolve, so must processes and deliverables that measure up to digital trends and enhance the customer experience. Within all three brands, recent technological advancements, such as enhanced mobile apps and drive-thru pick up windows, prioritize efficiency for franchise owners and fulfill the fast, dependable service customers expect.
All these things make these iconic restaurant brands ripe for franchise growth—Moe’s Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky’s, and McAlister’s Deli are offering exciting incentives for new franchise deals signed through December 20, 2023. For qualified franchisees, incentives for all three brands include discounted initial franchise fees and lowered advertising and royalty fees for new units in the first year of operation.
For more information, visit development.focusbrands.com.
