Franchise Wire, March 1, 2007, "Max and Erma's Serves up Something New for Customers - A Contemporary Building Prototype"

In a strategic move to embrace its 30-year heritage but differentiate itself in the casual dining market, Max & Erma's is rolling out a new contemporary design prototype that is already a hit in three markets.

“Our customers know Max & Erma’s is all about delicious, fresh food and a great dining experience that always brings them back for more,” said Eric Steinhoff, Max & Erma’s Director of Franchise Development. “To take that experience to another level, our newly designed restaurants are just what our customers ordered—a side of style, a dish of comfortable design and tasty décor for dessert.”

Established in 1972, Max & Erma’s operates 78 casual dining full-service restaurants and franchises 23 restaurants. An additional 30 franchised locations are slated to open in the next two years. To ensure the new design reflected the company’s re-imaging and re-branding campaign but kept its heritage in tact, the company hired WD Partners of Dublin, Ohio, one of the country’s most respected restaurant design companies. Customers can look forward to new features such as a two-story entry tower, patios, internal and external fireplaces and 6,000 square feet of open, spacious interior.

Fast and Furious Growth

The rollout of the new restaurant design is part of an aggressive franchise development campaign that focuses on seasoned restaurateurs interested in adding to their multi-brand portfolios.

“Now, Max & Erma’s is opening its doors to more than just devoted clientele – we’re offering a great opportunity for motivated entrepreneurs with restaurant industry experience who want to partner with a winning concept,” said Steinhoff. “Max & Erma’s business model has been a huge success for the company and its franchisees. Our customers know the brand is synonymous with fresh food and providing a memorable dining experience with each dining occasion.”

The best-in-class food, family and fun strategy has proven to be a winning recipe for Max & Erma’s franchisees. All franchisees are provided with unbeatable training and support services to ensure each location is a model for success. Max & Erma’s CEO, Todd Barnum, makes it a priority to personally visit each store opening and provide his hands-on support.

“Max & Erma’s is entering its fourth decade as a leader in casual dining. We’re looking for strategic partners who have extensive restaurant experience and really understand and appreciate the value of the Max & Erma’s brand and philosophy,” said Barnum. “We intend to align with people who compliment our goals for ongoing growth.”

Max & Erma’s offers more than 30 years of proven success in the $537 billion per year restaurant industry. In addition, the concept offers a franchise opportunity ideal for passionate customer service and food enthusiasts. The investment range to open a Max & Erma’s is between $600,000 and $3,000,000. Max & Erma’s supports franchisees with initial step-by-step training, location counsel, operations tools and other guidance to help them run a successful business.


About Max & Erma’s

Founded in 1972, Max & Erma’s offers guests savory all-American food, friendly service and a casual atmosphere. Passionate about providing the best quality ingredients, Max & Erma’s prides itself on top quality food and a memorable dining experience. Currently, Max & Erma’s owns and operates 78 casual dining full-service restaurants and franchises 23 restaurants. The Company estimates approximately XX new locations will open in the next year. Max & Erma’s is a publicly traded company on NASDAQ under the symbol MAXE. For more information, please visit www.maxandermas.com

View Company Website: http://www.maxandermas.com

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