Smalls Sliders, a rapidly expanding mini burger chain, has announced plans to open 12 new locations in the Charlotte, North Carolina region. Known for its innovative “can” concept, where restaurants are housed in modular, 750-square-foot buildings, the chain continues to grow across the United States.
Smalls Sliders, which specializes in cooked-to-order cheeseburger sliders, waffle fries, and milkshakes, has partnered with franchise group BM Sliders LLC to open these locations over the next six years, starting in late 2025.
This expansion reflects the chain’s broader growth strategy, which aims to streamline the opening process and offer a simple, quality-focused menu to customers.
Growth In The Charlotte Region
Smalls Sliders first entered the North Carolina market earlier this year with a deal to open nine restaurants in Raleigh, and this latest agreement will add 12 new locations in the Charlotte area.
The franchise group BM Sliders LLC has been tasked with opening these restaurants in key locations, including Charlotte, Matthews, Pineville, Indian Trail, Monroe, Gastonia, Huntersville, Concord, Hickory, and Salisbury, along with a possible site in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
The growth model for Smalls Sliders is designed for efficiency. By using pre-fabricated modular buildings, the company can reduce construction times and open locations more quickly compared to traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. This strategy has allowed Smalls Sliders to scale rapidly while maintaining a focus on delivering high-quality food.
Smalls Sliders’ “Can” Concept
The brand’s “can” design is one of the key differentiators that sets it apart from other quick-service restaurants (QSRs). These compact, 750-square-foot modular buildings are shipped fully constructed to their destination, where they are placed on-site and ready for operation.
This method allows the brand to open new locations faster than most competitors, and it contributes to lower overhead costs. Each restaurant serves a limited menu featuring items like cheeseburger sliders, grilled cheese sandwiches, waffle fries, and milkshakes, providing a focused, streamlined dining experience.
BM Sliders LLC is confident in Smalls Sliders’ ability to thrive in the competitive QSR market, especially in the Charlotte region. The group’s spokesperson praised the chain’s growth trajectory and its distinctive design, which they believe will have a significant impact in every community they enter.
Expansion Plans Beyond North Carolina
While the Charlotte and Raleigh markets are major focal points, Smalls Sliders has broader ambitions. The company aims to have 40 locations by the end of 2024. Currently, the chain has 14 restaurants open in Louisiana, along with locations in Mississippi and Florida.
In addition to the 12 new Charlotte locations, Smalls Sliders has also announced plans for new restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, South Carolina, and Texas. The company’s website lists over 25 upcoming openings across these states, signaling a clear intent to rapidly expand its presence nationwide.
As part of its national growth strategy, Smalls Sliders has entered into multiple multi-unit franchise agreements that will see new locations open in various states throughout 2024 and beyond.
In August, the company announced that it had more than 300 locations either open or under development across 24 states, with six states already sold out for future expansion.
Competition In The Burger Chain Market
Smalls Sliders is not the only burger chain pursuing aggressive expansion plans. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, another fast-casual burger chain, recently signed four franchise agreements to open 21 new restaurants across Washington, Illinois, Iowa, New Jersey, and Texas.
This competitive environment underscores the growing demand for high-quality, fast-casual dining options, particularly in the burger segment.
Smalls Sliders’ ability to stand out in this crowded market will likely hinge on its innovative “can” concept, its simple yet effective menu, and its ability to rapidly scale operations while maintaining high standards of quality.
Conclusion:
Smalls Sliders’ rapid expansion reflects the growing demand for its unique, modular “can” concept and simple yet delicious menu. With 12 new locations planned for Charlotte and 40 more across the U.S. by the end of 2024, the chain is set to make a big impact.
As they continue to build momentum, Smalls Sliders aims to serve communities nationwide with its fresh take on fast-casual dining, making it a brand to watch in the competitive burger chain market.
FAQs
1. What Other States Are Smalls Sliders Expanding Into?
In addition to North Carolina, Smalls Sliders is expanding into Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, South Carolina, and Texas.
2. What Makes Smalls Sliders Unique?
Smalls Sliders uses modular “can” buildings for faster construction and a simple menu focused on cheeseburger sliders, fries, and milkshakes.
3. Where Will The New Locations Be In Charlotte?
New locations will be in Charlotte, Matthews, Pineville, Indian Trail, Monroe, Gastonia, Huntersville, Concord, Hickory, and Salisbury, NC, plus Rock Hill, SC.
4. When Will The Charlotte Locations Open?
The first Charlotte location is expected to open by late 2025, with all 12 planned locations opening over six years.
5. How Many Total Locations Does Smalls Sliders Have?
Smalls Sliders currently has 14 restaurants open and plans to reach 40 locations by the end of 2024.
