Damon's Grill Signs Multi-Unit Franchise Development Deals for New York, New Jersey

Damon's Grill has signed Multi-unit franchise development agreements with two prominent New York and New Jersey Restaurant operators. The new agreements are the foundation for the casual dining chain's expansion in the New York City area and throughout New Jersey.

Metropolitan Restaurant Group, Inc., a New York City Wendy's multi-unit franchisee, signed a development agreement for northern and central New Jersey. According to Partner Robert Cammarano, Metropolitan Restaurant Group was impressed with the financial performance of the new Damon's prototype. "We were looking for a concept that would allow us to maximize sales volume and return on investment," he said. Metropolitan Restaurant Group plans to initially open the first of five Damon's Grills in mid-2003. It has an option for several additional restaurants.

"We looked at a number of casual dining chains, and Damon's Grill really distinguishes itself in the quality of its food and operations," Metropolitan Restaurant Group Partner Todd Bialow said. "It's also a very unique concept that is different from other casual dining chains that are all pretty much the same."

Veteran restaurant owner/operator Anthony DiLeo signed a multi-unit development agreement for Staten Island, New York, and Ocean and Monmouth Counties in New Jersey. He also is a multi-unit Perkins Restaurant & Bakery franchisee with locations on Staten Island.

"All three of these areas are underserved casual dining markets," DiLeo said. "In looking for a casual dining franchise, I was struck by the attractiveness of the new Damon's building and the concept's broad appeal. I expect that we will do very well in all three areas." DiLeo plans to open the first Damon's Grill next spring on Staten Island. He may develop as many as six locations.

"These new development agreements demonstrate that we are extremely well positioned for growth," said Shannon Foust, president and CEO of Damon's Restaurants, Inc., the chain's parent company. "In the last two years, we have launched a new prototype, brand strategy and menu. The Damon's of today is very different than it was a few years ago, and the Franchise community is noticing."

Foust added that Damon's plans to add approximately 20 franchised and company-owned restaurants within the next year. "We are primarily building out markets in the Midwest and Eastern U.S. where the majority of our restaurants are located," he said. "These agreements are an important strategic step in accomplishing that goal, and we are especially pleased to be working with two groups that have such great track records. Both are outstanding operators."

With more than 140 company and franchised locations worldwide, Damon's Restaurants, Inc. is a leading full-service, casual dining restaurant that emphasizes grilled steaks, chicken and seafood, salads and Damon's award-winning ribs. Guests enjoy a quiet dining room or Damon's high-energy Clubhouse that features a state-of-the-art multi-screen entertainment system offering sports, network programming and interactive games. Founded in 1979, Damon's Restaurants, Inc. is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio.