Dive Brief:
- Hawaiian Bros has signed a major 52-store franchise development agreement in Florida, with Southern Rock Restaurants, a major operator of McAlister’s Deli and Dave’s Hot Chicken, the chain said in an emailed press release.
- Southern Rock plans to open 24 Hawaiian Bros locations within three years — equivalent to about 30% of the roughly 80 units the franchisor currently has open.
- Since signing its first multi-unit development deal in 2023, the Hawaiian-inspired fast casual chain has built up a substantial pipeline of unit growth with 350 locations in some stage of development across 20 states with 13 franchisees, according to the press release.
Dive Insight:
The deal is a significant strategic step forward, according to Grant Kreutzer, Hawaiian Bros SVP of franchise development.
“Entering Florida is a highly anticipated milestone for Hawaiian Bros, and we couldn’t ask for a more experienced group to help establish our presence in the state,” Kreutzer said.
The Southern Rock agreement covers Jacksonville, Gainesville, Tampa and Orlando and has a six-year timeline for completed development, according to the press release.
Southern Rock is led by CEO Max Piet and operates close to 200 restaurants in 13 states.
Piet said the development deal and Hawaiian Bros’ swift growth reflects its “simple, proven model, strong culture, and commitment to exceptional hospitality.” ”
Hawaiian Bros grew from 32 units at the start of 2023 to about 80 today, according to its franchise disclosure document and public statements. The chain’s average unit volume was roughly $2.4 million last year, fairly strong for a fast casual chain.
The brand’s plated lunches are built around pork and chicken protein offerings and are designed to be easy to prepare with fresh ingredients, according to the press release. The chain’s stores have no freezers, fryers or microwaves, which helps keep equipment costs lower. These operational facets keep the brand aligned with larger industry trends towards fresh flavors and ingredients and efforts to lower buildout costs for franchisees.
