Smalls Sliders, a rapidly growing burger chain known for its cooked-to-order sliders and waffle fries, is again making headlines with another major expansion. Just weeks after revealing that it has over 300 open locations or is in development, the brand has announced a new deal that will bring 12 additional restaurants to North Carolina.
New Locations Coming to the Charlotte Region
Smalls Sliders recently signed its second deal for the North Carolina market, securing a plan to open 12 new “cans” locations in the Charlotte area. This latest deal is with franchise group BM Sliders LLC, which will oversee the development of the new restaurants.
The first location is set to open towards the end of 2025, and all 12 are expected to be operational within six years.
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The new locations will be strategically placed in and around the Charlotte area, with specific locations under consideration, including Charlotte, Matthews, Pineville, Indian Trail, Monroe, Gastonia, Huntersville, Concord, Hickory, and Salisbury. Rock Hill, South Carolina, will also be a part of this expansion.
Unique Growth Strategy with “Can” Design
Smalls Sliders stands out from other fast-casual burger chains with its distinctive growth strategy. Instead of traditional restaurant builds, the brand utilizes 750-square-foot modular structures, aptly named “cans.”
These modular buildings are delivered directly to their designated locations, allowing quicker openings than traditional restaurant construction.
In addition to the innovative design, Smalls Sliders sets itself apart with a focused, streamlined menu. Customers can expect a simple but tasty selection of cheeseburger sliders, grilled cheese sandwiches, waffle fries, and milkshakes.
This limited menu speeds up operations and ensures quality and consistency across all locations.
“There are few, if any, quick-service restaurant (QSR) concepts out there with the same flair and growth trajectory that Smalls Sliders has,” a spokesperson from BM Sliders LLC said in a statement. “The Can design is extensively unique, and paired with the intentionally limited menu, it was a no-brainer to join the brand as it expands nationwide.
We’re looking forward to opening our Cans across the Charlotte region over the next few years and are eager for the impact they’ll no doubt have on each community we enter.”
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Continued Expansion in North Carolina
This expansion into Charlotte follows Smalls Sliders’ announcement in May 2024 regarding its entrance into the North Carolina market.
The initial deal involves bringing nine restaurants to the Raleigh area, with the first location slated to open in 2025. These two deals solidify Smalls Sliders’ commitment to expanding its footprint in the Tar Heel State.
Smalls Sliders’ Growing Presence
Although Smalls Sliders is still in its early stages, the chain is quickly gaining traction. The burger brand currently operates 14 restaurants across Louisiana and locations in Mississippi and Florida. Smalls Sliders has ambitious growth goals, with the expectation of reaching 40 open locations by the end of 2024.
In August, the company announced it has cans either open or under development in 24 states, with six states already sold out for future expansion.
The brand’s website lists 25 upcoming openings in key markets, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, South Carolina, and Texas.
More Burger Chains Joining the Race
Smalls Sliders isn’t the only burger chain making waves in the fast-casual industry. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers recently announced its expansion plans. The chain has signed four franchise agreements to bring 21 new restaurants to its system.
These new Freddy’s locations will be spread across Washington, Illinois, Iowa, New Jersey, and Texas, reflecting the increasing competition in the growing burger chain market.
A Bright Future for Smalls Sliders
As Smalls Sliders continues to grow, its innovative approach to restaurant design and commitment to a simple, delicious menu has positioned it as a major player in the competitive burger market.
With its expansion into North Carolina and multiple other states, the chain is well on its way to becoming a nationwide favorite.
For fans of the fast-casual dining experience, Smalls Sliders offers a unique combination of quick service, quality ingredients, and a distinctive dining atmosphere. The future looks bright for this burger brand as it continues to expand its presence across the United States.