TA's Quaker Steak & Lube Seeks Growth With Multi-Unit Franchisees
WESTLAKE, Ohio — Quaker Steak & Lube is pursuing aggressive growth nationwide as it looks for entrepreneurs interested in opening multiple restaurants.
Operated by TA Restaurant Group, a division of TravelCenters of America (TA), Quaker Steak & Lube will seek new franchisees during the annual Multi-Unit Franchising Conference, set to take place April 23-26 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
"Over the last 43 years, Quaker Steak & Lube has developed a passionate following from consumers nationwide and TA Restaurant Group has spent the last year refining operations and investing in what has made Quaker Steak & Lube a fan favorite for so long — our great food, beverages, and atmosphere," said John Ponczoch, senior vice president of TravelCenters of America and head of TA Restaurant Group.
Ponczoch will be honored with the Multi-Brand Growth Award during the conference's 2017 Most Valuable Performer Awards ceremony.
"Quaker Steak & Lube is a truly unique concept that has differentiated itself from competitors in the crowded foodservice industry and we're committed to growing the brand nationally. We look forward to meeting with qualified and experienced franchise candidates looking to expand their portfolio and join a legacy brand with an invaluable support system in place," he said.
Potential franchisees candidates should have multi-unit ownership experience, preferably in the restaurant industry, at least $1 million in liquid assets and a minimum net worth of $3 million.
TA Restaurant Group acquired Quaker Steak & Lube in 2016 and moved to strengthen the brand through the addition of a new executive chef and a new beverage program manager who are leading the launch of a new menu in all locations nationwide later this month.
The company is also evolving Quaker Steak & Lube's restaurant design while keeping the signature ambiance of suspended race cars from the ceilings and gas station memorabilia lining the walls. In the future, the brand will put a renewed focus on providing more flexible, non-traditional buildouts for franchisees to allow more aggressive growth in stadiums, colleges, kiosks and airports, the company stated.
Quaker Steak & Lube has more than 50 locations in 14 states. Part of Westlake-based TravelCenters of America LLC, the TA Restaurant Group includes more than 850 quick-service and full-service restaurants and other food outlets, including 10 proprietary restaurant brands.