Smiling Moose Deli Makes Tracks to Montana

By: Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli | 1,015 Shares 180 Reads

December 02, 2011 // Franchising.com // Bozeman, MT - According to the owner of Smiling Moose Deli's first Montana store, Sharon Stachlowski was most surprised by how many locals already knew her new franchise by name. While the franchise originated in Colorado, and the two states enjoy the same outdoor passions, it is most likely the memorable menu that made an impression on visitors, appealing to a wide clientele from successful business owners to hungry college students.

That menu, as a matter of fact, was what caught Sharon's attention as she searched for the perfect fit for her west Main location. "After extensive research, I came across Smiling Moose Deli and the eclectic menu just stood out." While Sharon had 16 years of experience in the franchise industry, she never saw herself as the owner of a restaurant; however, she recognized the importance of complementing the neighboring businesses, which include Signs Now and Budget Bouquet. Integrating a store that offered breakfast, lunch, and dinner made good common sense, so she looked for an 'exceptional model' and found it in Smiling Moose Deli. "The people behind the Moose are young and energetic, they greet everything they do with enthusiasm, I honestly couldn't be happier with this franchise."

Finding a good fit with the community is crucial for Smiling Moose Deli; Larry Hill, Director of Business Development has been impressed with the popularity of the new Bozeman location. "We've enjoyed a tremendous welcome into the community. Sharon has made a point of extending the Big Sky hospitality, and offers a host of different spots within the surprisingly large restaurant, to relax and enjoy a meal." He continues, "Free Wi-Fi can be accessed from the 25-seat patio, the barrel chairs near the rock fireplace, or a sunny window seat."

Always looking for the most satisfying experience for a customer, Smiling Moose Deli has recently added new items to their menu. The signature Mighty Mo, a cheeseburger grinder, now has an entire line that incorporates southwestern, BBQ and vegetarian Boca burger versions. In addition, breakfast burritos are served all day, custom chopped salads are prepared with the customer guiding the choices, and hot or iced espressos have become essentials among customers. The kids' menu hasbeen expanded and now includes a pizza bagel and a yummy treat. As always, Smiling Moose Deli's gluten-free menu is a huge hit and includes soups, salads, and delicious sandwiches.

In particular, Sharon offers the Fishing and Hunting Guide Lunch since her store opened in June, and has watched the deal grow in popularity. Area fishing and hunting guides call in their order the day before a trip and then cruise through the pick-up window. A guide who orders five or more bag lunches also receives a free hot breakfast sandwich. She even offers to fill up a cooler of ice for free, endearing her to customers who have one less stop before getting out of town. Of course, the same deal is offered to anyone who volunteers to pick up lunch for their fishing or hunting buddies; the Moose delights in offering a hugely satisfying meal with fresh ingredients for all.

Similarly, catering has also become a big part of the store's revenue. With no pre-set limit, and the ability to serve 5 to 200, one Montana bride already enlisted Smiling Moose Deli to cater her wedding reception this summer. Guests enjoyed lasagna, vegetarian ziti, gluten-free ziti and fresh salads at a fraction of the price of traditionally catered weddings.

Sharon has been so enamored with the Smiling Moose Deli franchise that she is considering additional models throughout the state of Montana, including Billings, Missoula, Helena, and Great Falls.

About Smiling Moose Deli

The Smiling Moose deli opened its doors in Edwards, Colo. on June 22, 2003. The quirky innovative deli with the big smile was conceived by two well-known Colorado restaurateurs, Kevin Sloane and Bryan Brutsch. The Smiling Moose, now open in five Colorado locations, offers customers a wide array of fresh homemade signature sandwiches, soups, salads, and delightful desserts along with family trays of lasagna and other delicious hot meals.

To learn more about Smiling Moose's growth and franchise opportunities, please contact Larry Hill at larryh@smilingmoosedeli.com or call 1-888-825-3354.

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