Organic Burger Chain Signs First Florida Deal

By: Elevation Burger | 9 Shares 515 Reads

Elevation Burger Signs Multi-Unit Agreement with South Florida Entrepreneurs

March 30, 2009 // Franchising.com // Arlington, VA, — Elevation Burger, a 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 South Florida entrepreneurs Jeffrey Feinstein and Sam Ginsberg. The franchisees plan to open the first Elevation Burger Florida location by the end of 2009. The innovative chain is rapidly expanding its Virginia-based organic burger concept throughout the United States and has 29 locations in development across Texas, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C. and now Florida. Fransmart, the company that helped launch the ultra successful Five Guys Burgers & Fries chain, is leading the franchise development plans for Elevation Burger.

"We originally looked at opening a 5 Guys Burgers & Fries franchise but upon investigating the burger segment we found Elevation Burger. We were instantly excited by the concept and knew we didn't need to look further," commented Jeffrey Feinstein. "Customers can enjoy a great tasting burger and fries meal without feeling like they are compromising their health and diet."

Ginsberg, a former record producer who produced John Lennon's last album, and Feinstein, a serial entrepreneur, will be developing a minimum of 3 units in Broward and Palm Beach Counties. The franchisees plan to analyze strategic data on potential trade areas, including similar restaurant sales, potential sites and real estate deal terms.

"Elevation Burger is exactly what the state of Florida needs. It satisfies the love of burgers for the right price and with the health and environmental concerns that are important to consumers," said franchisee Sam Ginsberg. "Most importantly, it tastes amazing."

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.

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 process for fresh-cut french fries cooked in 100% heart-healthy olive oil. 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.

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