BurgerFi in first-ever co-branded franchising deal with Anthony’s
BurgerFi International is ramping up expansion via a co-branded franchising strategy.
The fast-casual “better burger” restaurant chain has entered into a multi-unit development agreement with NDM Hospitality Services. The agreement will franchise three Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza & Wings locations in Florida during the next two years.
BurgerFi acquired Anthony's, a premium pizza and wing brand, in November 2021, with plans to lead a joint expansion of the two chains focused on the eastern half of the United States.
As part of Anthony's new franchise program being introduced this year, NDM Hospitality is the first franchisee to sign a development deal, which will launch in Kissimmee, Fla., inside an existing BurgerFi restaurant with a projected opening in spring 2023.
“As we roll out our franchise program for Anthony's, it only seems right to connect with NDM Hospitality to start this new era of franchising for the concept," said Ronald Biskin, chief development officer of BurgerFi International. "This dual-branded approach highlights our flexible footprint and will leverage operations, facilities and real estate with the potential application in multiple BurgerFi locations.”
NDM Hospitality has been a key player in the growth of BurgerFi and has innovated many of the internal processes the chain uses today, the company said. BurgerFi is expanding through several different channels, including non-traditional venues, ghost kitchens, airports, and now, dual-brand locations with Anthony's.
[Read More: Flexible footprint model keeps BurgerFi expansion on track]
After being acquired by BurgerFi, Anthony's developed a new design prototype that allows for a larger focus on off-premises business.
Founded in 2011, BurgerFi operates 117 BurgerFi restaurants (92 franchised and 25 corporate-owned). Anthony's operates 61 corporate-owned casual restaurant locations.