Shake Shack is planning to more than quadruple its domestic restaurant count.
The fast-casual burger chain said it now sees the potential for its company-operated footprint to reach “at least” 1,500 locations over time, versus its prior target of 450 domestic sites. Shake Shack expects to open about 80 to 85 new restaurants this year, including 45 company-operated locations. Licensed openings are expected to range from 40 to 45 openings.
Since the original Shack opened in 2004 in New York City, Shake Shack has expanded to over 550 locations system-wide, including over 350 in 33 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, and over 200 international locations across London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Mexico City, Istanbul, Dubai, Tokyo, Seoul and more.
“We believe that we are just getting started, and see an ample runway for growth ahead,” stated CEO Rob Lynch, who took the reins of the company in March. “We are committed to bringing the world’s best fine casual experience to as many guests, team members, and communities as possible. In doing so, we aim to bring pride to everyone in our company and to deliver a strong financial benefit for our team members and shareholders.”
