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Wit or Witout Philly Cheesesteaks Named 'Breakout Brand' by Nation's Restaurant News; Signs First Franchise Deal

By: Trev's Philly Cheesesteaks |  15 Shares     139 Reads

PHILADELPHIA - February 27, 2014 - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Wit or Witout Philly Cheesesteaks, just named to the "Breakout Brands 2014: The next restaurants to watch" list by Nation's Restaurant News, announces the signing of its first franchise development agreement.

Winner of celebrity chef Guy Fieri's Cheesesteak Battle, the two-unit Wit or Witout chain was acquired last year by Philadelphia restaurateur Tony Altomare, owner of seven Tony Roni's Italian restaurants. A few months later, Jim Sahene, former TCBY president and current Bruster's Real Ice Cream chief executive, came on board to help Altomare develop and franchise the brand.

This week, editors of leading industry publication Nation's Restaurant News picked Wit or Witout as one of 10 smaller, emerging "breakout brands" to watch.

Keith Morris, a Philadelphia financial advisor, former LaSalle University basketball player and son of legendary college and high school basketball coach Speedy Morris, has signed a deal to open the first franchised Wit or Witout. He is planning to develop several restaurants over the next few years, with the first expected to open this fall in Montgomery County, northwest of Philadelphia. The search for a site is underway.

"The opportunity to become the first Wit or Witout franchisee is an honor for me," Morris said. "I am confident that with Tony and Jim's guidance, the brand will be known nationally in a few short years and I am excited to be a part of it."

Since buying Wit or Witout, Altomare and Sahene have expanded the menu, revamped the restaurant's design, developed operating systems and created marketing and franchise strategies.

"Keith brings great credibility and visibility to Wit or Witout," Altomare said. "We are seeing strong interest from prospective franchisees in a number of states, but I am thrilled that our plan to expand is beginning right here with more Philly restaurants."

Like Morris, Altomare was a financial advisor before going into the restaurant business. Longtime friends, they talked years ago about opening a restaurant together. "I have always been impressed with Tony's work ethic and integrity," said Morris. "His ability to grow the Tony Roni's brand has amazed me and I am sure he will do the same with Wit or Witout."

About Wit or Witout 

Marketed as "born and raised in Philly" and the only authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak franchise, Wit or Witout is unlike any other sandwich chain, offering unique food items in a fun, entertaining Philly-centric environment. Wit or Witout is seeking franchisees for territories in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and New York. Click here for franchise information.

Contact:

Brad Ritter
Brad Ritter Communications, LLC
866-284-2170
BRitter@bradritter.com

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