Checkers Announces Five New Restaurants Planned for Hartford, Connecticut

TAMPA, FL–(Marketwire – July 7, 2010) –  Checkers® Drive-In Restaurants, the largest double drive-thru chain in the United States, announced today the signing of a multi-unit store development agreement with Tommy Barnard of Nutmeg Burger Corporation for five new restaurants in and around Hartford, Connecticut. The first restaurant is scheduled to open in the spring of 2011. Checkers’ development in Hartford is part of a strategic growth strategy to expand the brand’s presence in existing markets, as well as in new cities across the country.

“We’re very excited to welcome Tommy to the Checkers family,” said Lynette McKee, CFE, chief development officer of Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, Inc. “We are confident that residents in and around Hartford will crave our incredibly flavored burgers and uniquely seasoned fries and look forward to serving the local community.”

Led by Barnard, Nutmeg Burger Corporation has appointed Terry Nasiadka as director of operations to aid in Checkers’ expansion efforts across the region. Nasiadka is an experienced restaurant management professional with an extensive background in multi-concept and multi-unit development and new restaurant openings.

“I have deep roots in my hometown of Hartford and I’m thrilled to expand Checkers’ presence in the area,” said Barnard. “I have a strong passion for the brand and look forward to the opening of these five restaurants.” 

This five-unit deal sells out Hartford County for future development, but the rest of Connecticut, including New Haven, is still open for expansion. Opportunities are also available to develop restaurants in Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Detroit and Miami, among other cities. 

Ideally, franchisees should possess a strong financial background, a passion for their communities and the willingness to maximize their territory’s sales through development agreements generally ranging in size from 3 – 10 units. Single restaurant development opportunities also exist in select markets as well as conversions into single and double drive-thru locations. Candidates should possess a minimum net worth of $750,000 and liquid assets of at least $250,000, but financial qualifications will vary based on the opportunity available by market.

With more than 800 locations across the U.S., Checkers credits its success to the strength of its product, business model, innovative design and franchisee network. The Company is dedicated to providing the extensive training, operational support, national marketing and supply chain benefits necessary for franchisees to build their business.

Part of Checkers’ recent success is also due to the company’s expansion into non-traditional locations such as airports, universities and turnpike plazas. That growth, in combination with the advancement of end-cap and in-line designs, has provided new and existing franchisees with a greater range of development options.

Known for its full-flavored, hand seasoned burgers, thick shakes and famous seasoned fries, Checkers provides great tasting, fresh food for today’s on-the-go guest. Signature items include the classic Big Buford, Champ Burger, loaded fries and classic bone-in wings tossed in one of five flavors. Each location strives to serve top-quality meals at a great value with Guest-Obsessed© hospitality, speed and accuracy.

About Checkers^®

Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, Inc. is the largest double drive-thru restaurant chain in the United States. The company develops, owns, operates and franchises both Checkers and Rally’s restaurants. Based in Tampa, Florida, it has more than 800 restaurants open across the U.S. In recent years, the brand has been awarded several of the industry’s most prestigious awards including: “Best Drive-Thru in America” by QSR Magazine and the “Hot! Again Award” from Nation’s Restaurant News. For more information about Checkers, please visit www.checkers.com.

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