Smashburger, a fast-casual restaurant chain known for its hand-smashed-to-order burgers, is announcing the signing of a multi-unit development agreement to further expand its footprint in Utah, bringing five new locations to Salt Lake City. Leading the brand's expansion in the market is multi-unit franchisee Michael Walker of Zuvachs LLC, who acquired two existing Smashburger locations in Salt Lake City through the deal. The announcement builds on the growth momentum that Smashburger has achieved since the beginning of the year by adding 26 locations to its pipeline.
"We are extremely proud of the growth that has been accomplished since reigniting our franchise development program towards the end of last year. Franchisees across the country have seen first-hand how strongly our elevated better-burger experience resonates in each of the markets we operate in, and see the promise in our brand's vision," said Toni Bianco, senior vice president of global operations at Smashburger. "We're looking to partner with experienced operators that are eager to grow, and Michael has proven to fit that classification."