2019
1
$24,500
$24,500
$226,100
No
Big Shawn’s Cheesesteaks is redefining the quick-service restaurant (QSR) landscape with its authentic Philly cheesesteaks, innovative menu offerings, and a commitment to quality that resonates with food enthusiasts across the United States. Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this emerging brand has quickly garnered attention for its generous portions, fresh ingredients, and a menu that extends beyond traditional offerings to include unique items like egg rolls and Italian Ice Water. As the demand for authentic, high-quality cheesesteaks grows, Big Shawn’s stands poised to expand its footprint nationwide, offering a compelling franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to invest in a brand with a strong local following and a proven concept.
Investing in a Big Shawn’s Cheesesteaks franchise presents a unique opportunity to be part of a brand that combines the rich tradition of Philly cheesesteaks with innovative culinary twists. The franchise's commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and community engagement positions it as a promising venture in the competitive QSR industry. With an initial investment ranging from $137,150 to $226,100 and a franchise fee of $24,500, prospective franchisees can tap into a growing market with a brand that has already established a loyal customer base in its home state of Michigan.
Established Year: 2019
Franchising Since: 2021
Founder: Shawn Whiting
Headquarters: 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Franchise Units: 1 (as of 2022)
Industry Category: Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) specializing in Philly Cheesesteaks
Ownership: Privately held by Big Shawn's Cheesesteaks Franchise, LLC
Trademark: "Big Shawn's Cheesesteaks Straight Out of Philly" registered on May 16, 2023
Big Shawn’s Cheesesteaks began as a mobile food service, catering to street corners, events, and private parties. The overwhelming demand led to the establishment of a brick-and-mortar location in Grand Rapids, where the brand has cultivated a loyal customer base. The franchise model was introduced in 2021, aiming to expand the brand's reach while maintaining the quality and authenticity that customers have come to expect.
Big Shawn’s Cheesesteaks offers comprehensive support and training to ensure franchisee success:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiations, and securing financing through third-party sources.
Training Programs: A combination of classroom and on-the-job training totaling 54 hours, covering food preparation, customer service, and operational procedures.
Grand Opening Assistance: Support in planning and executing a successful launch to generate initial customer interest.
Ongoing Support: Continuous operational guidance, marketing support, and access to proprietary recipes and operational systems.
This robust support system equips franchisees with the tools and knowledge necessary to operate a successful Big Shawn’s Cheesesteaks location.
The ideal franchisee for Big Shawn’s Cheesesteaks is an entrepreneur who is passionate about food and customer service. Key attributes include:
Business Acumen: Experience in retail or restaurant management is beneficial but not required.
Operational Involvement: Willingness to be actively involved in daily operations; this is not a semi-absentee franchise.
Community Engagement: Desire to build relationships within the local community and provide exceptional customer experiences.
Investment Capability: Ability to meet the financial requirements, including an initial investment ranging from $137,150 to $226,100 and a cash requirement of $24,500.
Franchisees should be prepared to manage all aspects of the business, from food preparation to customer service, ensuring the brand's standards are upheld.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $24,500 |
| Total Investment | $137,150 – $226,100 |
| Cash Requirement | $24,500 |
| Royalty Fee | 5.5% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | Up to 1% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-out Cost | Included in total investment estimate |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment estimate |
| Franchise Term | 10 years, renewable |
| Third-Party Financing | Available through approved lenders |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and operational efficiency |
| Break-even Time | Location-dependent, not disclosed |
| Revenue Streams | Cheesesteaks, egg rolls, Italian Ice Water, other menu items |
