Gandolfo's, a New York Delicatessen concept out of Salt Lake City, more than doubled the size of its chain last year through franchising. According to this press release, Gandolfo's moved from a 9-store chain in 2002 to 22 stores in 2003. The chain's plans for future growth far exceed its 2003 mark. It currently has 45 locations operating with another 298 units sold; it intends to open 61 in 2004 and have 400 units sold in that time.
Meanwhile out of Atlanta, Moe's Southwest Grill continues to expand. According to this story from ContraCostaTimes.com, the company, which was started in 2000 by Martin Sprock, has 135 locations and 700 under contract. The story details the franchise company's efforts to control costs, including a $50,000 salary cap on all employees (including Sprock himself) and using executives' cars as advertising. The owner of Moe's is Raving Brands, Inc., the parent company of five different franchise concepts, including Mama Fu's Noodle House, Planet Smoothie, Doc Green's Gourmet Salads, and PJ's Coffee. See June 23, 2004 blog entry for another story about Moe's growth.