RECOMMENDED READING

  • Enhancing Growth Trajectory: Strategic Executive Appointments at Tropical Smoothie Cafe

    By Adrianne Irwin • Feb. 12, 2025

  • The Rise and Fall of a Pizza Hut Franchisee: A Story of Financial Mismanagement and Bankruptcy

    By Anastasia Ivers • Jul. 25, 2024

  • The Art of Acquiring Franchises: Tucker’s Farm Corp. Acquires Pizza Factory Inc.

    By Ava Ingram • Jan. 14, 2025

  • The Rise of Jollibee: A Closer Look at Fast Food Franchising Success

    By Ava Ingram • Mar. 12, 2025

  • The Future of Franchising: Jack in the Box Expansion Strategy and Growth Plans

    By Ava Ingram • Nov. 22, 2024

  • Unveiling the Secrets of Restaurant Franchising with Lynette McKee from Potbelly Sandwich Works

    By Anastasia Ivers • Aug. 10, 2024

  • The Acquisition of Kelly's Roast Beef: A New Era of Franchising and Expansion

    By Ava Ingram • Jan. 8, 2025

Restaurant Association Logo

Restaurant Association

Empowering restaurant professionals with free resources, training, and networking opportunities to build successful businesses.

Sign Up Free

Pages

  • Articles
  • News
  • Topics
  • Shows
  • Academy
  • Events
  • Jobs

About

  • About Us
  • Our Team
  • Contact Us
  • Sitemap

Resources

  • Library
  • Templates

Connect

LinkedInInstagramTikTokYouTubeX
  • Editorial Ethics Policy
  • Review Guidelines
  • Disclosure Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2026 Restaurant Association. All rights reserved.

logo
  1. News
  2. Topics
  3. Shows
  4. Academy
  5. Events
  6. Jobs
  7. Resources

    Videos

  • No results found

  • Articles

  • No results found

Log InSign Up Free
logo
LoginSign Up

    Videos

  • No results found

  • Articles

  • No results found

  1. Shows
  2. Academy
  3. Events
  4. Jobs

Become a member of the Restaurant Association!

Unlock exclusive access to webinars, events, and the latest news for FREE!

Sign up
Restaurant Association Logo

The Growth Journey of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks: A Franchising Success Story

Explore the expansion and success of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks through new lease signings and franchise growth across multiple states.

Updated On Aug. 1, 2024 Published Jul. 31, 2024

Anastasia Ivers

Anastasia Ivers

Big Daves

Expanding Horizons: New Lease Signings Propel Growth

Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, the brainchild of Derrick Hayes, has recently announced multiple new lease signings in key areas like Florida, South Carolina, and Georgia, marking a significant milestone in the brand's expansion journey. The strategic decision to expand to these locations showcases the company's vision for growth and market penetration.

Florida Expansion: The Sunshine State Beckons

With plans to establish ten units in Florida, Big Dave's Cheesesteaks is set to kick off its expansion in Oviedo, Florida, at The Park development on Mitchell-Hammock Road. This move not only highlights the brand's commitment to growth but also represents a substantial opportunity for both the company and potential franchisees in the state.

South Carolina Development: A New Frontier in Five Points District

In South Carolina, the development team led by Marc and Kiera Brown, as well as Frank and Courtney Williams, has secured a prime 1,600 square foot location in Columbia’s Five Points District. This venture signifies a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of the franchise partners in expanding Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks in new territories.

The Heart of Expansion: Founder's Vision and Franchisee Commitment

The success of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks can be attributed to the visionary founder, Derrick Hayes, who transformed the brand from its origins as Big Dave’s Water Ice to a renowned cheesesteak franchise. Inspired by his late father, Hayes aims to bring a piece of his heritage to major cities across the nation, fostering community, peace, and culture through his culinary creations.

https://d3n2401vhvcfv5.cloudfront.net/_images/company/big_daves/logo.webp

Franchise Partnerships: Keys to Growth and Success

The partnership between Big Dave’s and its franchisees has been pivotal in the brand's rapid expansion. Franchisees like Derek Lewis in Central Florida and the teams in South Carolina exemplify the dedication and support crucial for driving the brand forward. Their collaboration with the franchise support team underscores the effectiveness of the company's guidance and resources in nurturing successful ventures.