Smashburger was founded by Tom Ryan in 2007.  He has experience with Quizno’s, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, and Long John Silver’s from his past.  The first Smashburger was started in Denver.  The company received a $15 million investment from Consumer Capital partners in 2009 and this has allowed them to begin the phases of their major national expansion.  There are 100 locations nationwide and the plan is to double the amount of locations by 2012.  The actual first Smashburger was called IconBurger and it was located in Lafayette, Co.  It was actually founded by Lance Perryman and he sold the concept to Ryan in 2007.  This is when it was renamed Smashburger.

The reason Smashburger is named Smashburger is because of the process they use to cook their burgers.  They take 100% certified Angus ground beef and they smash it on a grill and sear it in the juices from the mat.  This is a concept that is not seen in any other fast casual type of restaurant.  They don’t only serve a variety of burgers, but they also serve a variety of chicken sandwiches, salads, side items, desserts, and beverages.  Both the burgers and the chicken sandwiches come with a create your own option as well.

Smashburger is trying to expand into many new locations and they are seeking multi-unit development partners in the United States and in other countries.  These can be either individuals or partnerships, but they must meet the requirements.  Smashburger requires that all restaurant franchisees have a proven record in the restaurant industry along with 5 years of multi-unit restaurant management experiences as an operator or an owner.  They also require a net worth of $2.5 million and at least $1 million in liquid assets.  Development agreements typically range from 5 to 20 units and in some locations the franchisee will have to be able to obtain a liquor license.