New Canadian store openings are fewer this year to date than in the last few years, according to Ken Opper VP Real Estate with barBurrito Fresh Mexican Grill, but this is attributable to discipline. “There is no pressure to fill a target number of openings,” he notes. “We will open as many restaurants for which we can conclude viable agreements in solid properties that fit within our store network of over 400 operating units nationwide”. That, however, is not to say it has been a quiet year for the chain of quick casual Tex/Mex-style restaurants. With 14 openings year-to-date, there are about 40 more that are under construction, waiting on possession, or in conditional periods. All provinces other than Quebec have seen or will see openings, with Quebec expansion dependent upon locating a provincially based master franchisee. With multiple additional negotiations engaged, barBurrito continues to source further opportunities country-wide. Secondary and smaller markets have performed well, in addition to the major markets. Among other areas, Whitehorse, Prince Rupert and Victoria are areas of interest. Grocery-anchored or power centres are the preferred format for units of approximately 1,000 to 1,200 square feet. With the ICSC@Canada in Toronto imminent, immediate and future site discussions will be entertained. ‘Subject to vacant possession’ arrangements are welcomed.
BarBurrito Fresh Mexican Grill, 1120 Finch Ave. West, Suite 701, Toronto, Ontario M3J 3H7 (Ken Opper – 416/578-0252 ken@barburrito.ca) (www.barburrito.ca)