Organic Burger Chain Signs First Overseas Franchise Deal

Date AddedMarch 26, 2010 10:25:37 AM

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Arlington, VA, -- Elevation Burger, the wildly successful Northern Virginia based chain known for its tasty organic burgers and patented fresh cut fries cooked in olive oil has signed a multi-unit franchising deal with investment banker, businessman, entrepreneur, and Kuwait native Ali Ashkanani. The innovative burger concept is already expanding rapidly throughout the United States, with five locations open in Falls Church, VA; Arlington, VA; Austin, TX; National Harbor, MD and Baltimore, MD and over fifty new locations in development across Texas, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., New York and Florida.

Fransmart, the company that helped launch the ultra successful Five Guys Burgers & Fries chain, is leading the franchise development plans for Elevation Burger.

"I am proud that Elevation Burger has rewarded me with their very first international franchise. It is exciting for us to team up and bring their tasty and healthier burgers to the Middle East. We look forward to serving the 'better burger' and to contribute to the success of Elevation Burger and its unique concept."

Ali is currently identifying strong retail real estate in Kuwait for his first location, and expects to have his first store open by mid-2010.

Says Hans Hess, Founder and CEO of Elevation Burger: "We are obviously very excited about our expansion to Kuwait and the Middle East region, and we're pleased to be working with Mr. Ashkanani in this endeavor. We believe the people of Kuwait will love our fresh, high-quality products and sustainable approach to business, and we look forward to serving them."

Elevation Burger has had an explosive amount of support from local patrons in the Washington, DC metro area since it first opened in 2005. The concept has received recognition in prestigious publications such as Washingtonian magazine and The Washington Post as "best shake" and "best burger" nominees. Founder Hans Hess received the "Green Business Visionary" award in 2008 from the Washington Business Journal, and the 2009 Green Business Award from Washingtonian Magazine in May of 2009.
About Elevation Burger:

Elevation Burger is a rapidly growing, fast casual concept serving 100% USDA-certified organic, 100% grass-fed, 100% free-range beef burgers and a patented-pending process for fresh-cut french fries cooked in 100% heart-healthy olive oil. Their tasty burgers are made with fresh patties that are never frozen. Founded by husband-and-wife entrepreneurs Hans and April Hess in 2005, the chain prides itself on an "elevated" experience and an organic/fresh approach that puts people and product ahead of profit. The first location opened in 2005, offering Northern Virginia a heart-friendly menu full of flavor. Hans and April's belief that "Ingredients Matter" has brought the restaurant rapid success and popularity. Driven by their passion for delicious food that's organic, sustainable and fresh, Elevation Burger began franchising in 2008. Restaurants feature high-efficiency equipment as well as recycled, recyclable and rapidly renewable finishes, and the company even aims to certify newly constructed stores under the US Green Building Council's LEED rating system - a rarity in the restaurant industry. Restaurants are 1,800-2,500 square feet and seat 50 to 150 guests with outdoor seating.