McAlister’s Deli was originally a very simple concept founded by a dentist named Dr. Don Newcomb in Oxford, Mississippi.  The restaurant started out of an old gas station and they have kept many of the original decor in the current concept.  He and his sons put together the concept and by 1995 the company was recognized as one of the fastest growing privately held companies in the United States.  There are currently 300 locations in 23 states and the company is currently run by Frank G. Paci.  Most of the locations are franchises that are independently operated and the headquarters is currently found in Ridgeland, Mississippi.

McAlister’s Deli is known for being a fast casual type of concept that serves deli subs, Texas-size spuds, soups, salads, and desserts.  They serve inside the actual restaurant and they also cater many items in sandwich trays and boxed lunches.  They are also very well known for the McAlister’s Famous Sweet Tea and this tea can be purchased by the glass or by the gallon.  They make everything by hand and it is fresh when you order it as well.

McAlister’s Deli offers franchise opportunities to those that have the money and the experience to qualify.  They require an initial franchise fee of $35,000 and ongoing royalties of 5% of the gross sales.  They also require 3% of the gross sales for advertising and the initial agreement will be 15 years long with three 5 year renewals.  They offer training that is free for the franchisee and they will support you throughout the process of opening your McAlister’s Deli.  They also require that the franchisee have a minimum liquidity of $750,000 and a net worth of at least $1.5 million.  They also want franchisees that will agree to open at least three restaurants.