(September 2009) posted on Thu Sep 24, 2009 EDT Company launched by former Caribou Coffee execs will be a partner
Smashburger, and PhaseNext Hospitality, a multi-concept franchise operator, are partnering to launch the burger chain's fast casual restaurant concept in seven U.S. airports next year. The first units will open at Dallas Ft. Worth, Houston George Bush Intercontinental and Washington Ronald Reagan National Airports. On the menu will be Smashburgers as well as chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, Smashsalads, sides such as veggie frites and seasoned Smashfries and beer, wine, soft drinks, floats and shakes.
PhaseNext brings both operating and franchise experience to the table. Its leadership—Roz Mallet and Amy O'Neil—are both former executives of Caribou Coffee. Mallet most recently served as interim president. O'Neil was senior vp of operations. Dallas-based PhaseNext focuses on operating premium fast casual restaurants in non-traditional venues. Under the terms of the agreement, Smashburger and PhaseNext will be looking for additional opportunities in venues such as train stations, military bases and university campuses.
The Denver-based burger chain is already on the growth train. It has sold franchise agreements that will add more than 260 locations over the next five years. Its business model includes expansion via company-owned projects, franchising and joint ventures to create a chain of 500 restaurants nationwide.
