Crave Management Group signs new agreement for development in Maricopa County.
By Andrew Carlo
Bobby’s Burgers, the franchise burger and shake chain from celebrity chef Bobby Flay, has reached a new franchise agreement in Arizona.
This new deal calls for Bobby’s Burgers locations to expand in Maricopa County. Behind the agreement is franchisee and veteran restaurateur Joe Sample, who recently opened his first Bobby’s Burgers location in Orem, Utah, in December 2024.
Sample, the founder of Crave Management Group, previously signed on for statewide rights in Utah.
Within Arizona, a Bobby’s Burgers location is located at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. According to Bobby’s Burgers, the first location from the agreement with Sample is expected to open next year.
“After the incredible welcome we’ve received in Orem and the unwavering support from the Bobby’s Burgers team, expanding into Arizona just made sense,” Sample said. “This brand is bold, craveable and the Bobby Flay-curated menu speaks for itself. Arizona’s dynamic market is the ideal place for us to continue the success we’ve seen in Orem and we’re beyond excited to bring Bobby’s Burgers to a whole new audience.”
In addition to Bobby’s Burgers, the portfolio at Crave Management Group includes Taco Bell locations. Bobby’s Burgers has 9 locations open with a 10th arriving at Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
But you won’t find Bobby’s Burgers locations on your average street. Rather, they are situated at destination points such as Yankee Stadium; Caesar’s Place, the Paris Hotel, and Harrah’s in Las Vegas; along with Caesar’s New Orleans and Harrah’s Atlantic City.
Regarding the latest deal with Sample, Bobby’s Burgers leadership is ready to expand the brand while growing in the Phoenix market.
“Joe is exactly the kind of partner we look for at Bobby’s Burgers,” said Michael McGill, president of Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay. “He’s passionate, experienced, and he knows how to build a team that truly brings our brand to life. I’m excited to see Bobby’s Burgers make its mark in the Phoenix area, and with Joe leading the way, I have no doubt that his locations will continue to thrive.”
The Bobby’s Burgers brand offers a streamlined menu of signature burgers and spoon-bending shakes, all with Flay’s culinary flair. In March, the brand celebrated the successful launch of its first-ever limited-time offer, featuring the Buffalo Burger and Dulce de Leche Shake.
For more information about franchise opportunities with Bobby’s Burgers, visit bobbysburgers.com/franchising.
