In 2015, veteran franchisee Angelo Freites joined the ranks of Checkers’ esteemed franchisees by operating four Checkers locations throughout the Palm Beach, Florida region. 

With countless veteran franchisees like Freites joining the Checkers team, the brand has demonstrated a strong opportunity for experienced operators to diversify their portfolios. Jennifer Durham, chief development officer for Checkers & Rally’s Restaurants, Inc., believes this has to do with the brand’s five pillars: the brand offers exciting growth potential (Checkers has availability in strong QSR markets across the country); a compelling financial proposition (Checkers boasts a low initial investment with best-in-class returns); a unique franchisee and franchisor alignment (the brand focuses on restaurant profitability); a magnetic culture (Checkers is ranked as the No. 1 multi-unit food brand for franchisee satisfaction); and a strong consumer proposition (Checkers offers bold, flavorful food at an incredible value).

“We have developed a formula for success that is attracting the attention of quick service industry veterans who recognize the unique opportunity to grow with the Checkers brand,” Durham said. “Our franchise opportunity is different because the company is the largest franchisee; we own and operate 40% of our system, which ensures both products and initiatives are thoroughly tested before rollout to the franchise community. This aligns us with our franchisees by putting our focus squarely on restaurant profitability and guest satisfaction, which sets us all up for success.”

That formula is proven to be successful—Checkers signed more than 100 new franchisees in the last three years and opened a record-breaking 37 new restaurants in 2015. Still, the brand continues to search for passionate franchisees who want to expand with the brand. 

"Making the decision to join Checkers was easy for me, becaues I love how the brand treats everyone in the system like a member of the family. Plus, with the low cost of entry, high ROI, and great franchisor support team, I know I'm set up for success and able to grow with the brand," said Freites.