Quiznos, Hess Partner in 50-Plus Florida Locations

DENVER -- In its largest convenience store deal yet, Quiznos is teaming up with Hess to open more than 50 Quiznos restaurants inside Hess locations in Florida. The move signifies Quiznos’ growth strategy within the c-store channel.

"Through our convenience store growth strategy, we have successfully developed regional partnerships with leading convenience store operators, evolving our c-store platform to best meet their regional needs," explained Shultz Hartgrove, senior vice president of convenience and non-traditional development for Quiznos. "This opportunity with Hess represents the culmination of that evolution, as we now focus on growing the number of locations."

The two companies took their partnership for a test run in nine Florida locations earlier this year. Based upon the successful preliminary results, Quiznos and Hess have decided to expand the pact to more than 40 additional locations in Tampa by the end of 2011, according to a Quiznos news release.

"The combination of Quiznos' brand recognition, unique toasted flavors and excellent operating platform gives Hess customers exactly what they are looking for," said Rick Lawlor, vice president of retail sales and marketing for Hess. "The Florida test proved that Quiznos is a solid partner that can attract new traffic into our stores."

The initial strategy will focus on Tampa, which is Hess' largest market. However, Quiznos and Hess both count Orlando and Miami as strong markets and executives are eying a long-term partnership with significant growth potential throughout the more than 1,350 Hess locations along the east coast, according to the release.

"Hess is one of the most established and well-respected players in this industry, and we are pleased to accelerate Quiznos' convenience store presence with such an excellent partner," said Greg MacDonald, CEO for Quiznos. "Hess brings a wealth of experience and understanding of the food business to this partnership. They understand the value of training and exceptional operations. We are confident in the success of this initial market launch and look forward to future growth opportunities through this partnership."

The joint convenience locations will feature a menu specifically designed for the c-store customer and retailer, including Quiznos’ signature toasty favorites and hot breakfast items prepared and packaged to eat on the go.