McAlister’s Deli grows its menu and its brand presence

McAlister's Deli grows its menu and its brand presence

McAlister's Deli boasts 330 restaurants in 24 states, according to the franchise website. The brand has been around since 1989 and has accumulated a loyal fanbase. Customers keep coming back for the deli's tasty sandwiches, baked potatoes and soups. McAlister's Famous Sweet Tea is a fan favorite as well. Franchisees interested in working for a franchise with a well-rounded menu and ambitious business goals should give McAlister's serious thought. The brand has remained committed to growth by continuing its expansion efforts and developing its menu to better serve the latest customer trends.

McAlister's delivers what customers want
The rise of the fast casual restaurant established that customers are willing to pay a bit more for larger portions, clean interiors and better customer service. Another major factor driving the rise of the fast casual market, as well as the success of McAlister's Deli, is the growing consumer demand for more complex flavors. Technomic's Flavor Consumer Trend Report showed that nearly 40 percent of customers have a greater interest in trying new flavors today than they did in 2012, according to Restaurant Hospitality. Another 40 percent of consumers expressed willingness to make purchasing decisions with intent on expanding their taste horizons.

McAlister's took this data to heart when designing its Big Bold Cravings menu. The franchise even added new items to the Big Bold lineup early October to capitalize on the success of its first round of hearty customer favorites. The New Orleans Muffuletta, a mix of Black Forest ham, provolone and salami, will join piled-high entrees like the Horseradish Roast Beef and the King Club. Big Bold sandwiches are also available as part of McAlister's catering services in the form of the Big Bold Collection Box, a 24-sandwich package designed to feed 12 to 16 guests. 

Growth in Wyoming and Tennessee
There are plenty of fans of McAlister's Deli in Laramie, Wyoming, and  the brand's local success has inspired further expansion in the state. The Wyoming Tribune reports that the deli is now targeting Cheyenne as a potential location for a new McAlister's. The expansion is part of a recently signed deal that will put 10 new McAlister's in four states across the U.S. Cheyenne was targeted for expansion due to underdevelopment of restaurant chains in the area. McAlister's traditional deli menu, including salads and desserts, will be able to play toward multiple niches in the community.

Deli lovers in Middle Tennessee are in luck as well, reported The Tennessean. A new franchise agreement will bring 10 units to the state's central region by 2021. The very first McAlister's in Tennesse is expected to open in 2015. Like in Wyoming, the chain's statewide expansion in Tennessee sprung out of early success in a major market. In this case it was three bustling stores in Nashville that led to the spread of new McAlister's locations across the region.