A franchisee of Five Guys, based in Utah, is set to expand its presence in the Orlando area by adding eight new locations. Darven Erickson, CEO of North Star Dining USA Inc., has expressed confidence in the growth potential of Central Florida. His company recently acquired 17 existing Five Guys restaurants in the Orlando market for a total of up to $12 million, as reported by WFTV in collaboration with the Orlando Business Journal.
The transaction, facilitated by National Franchise Sales (NFS), saw the purchase of these restaurants from Bengel’s Burgers, LLC, a long-standing operator of Five Guys. In an announcement on Instagram, NFS confirmed that they successfully managed the process, ensuring a smooth and timely closing.
In addition to the recent acquisition, North Star Dining USA is poised to invest up to $5.7 million into establishing eight new Five Guys locations in the Orlando area. While specific locations and timelines for these new restaurants have yet to be disclosed, this investment signals a strong commitment to growth in the region.
North Star Dining USA has been on a growth trajectory, having previously acquired all 18 Five Guys locations in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul market in July 2024. The company’s expansion strategy reflects the brand’s increasing popularity and consumer demand.
Founded in 1986 in Arlington, Virginia, Five Guys started as a small takeout burger joint and has since grown to include more than 1,000 locations worldwide. The brand is known for its exceptional customer service and value, offering complimentary fresh peanuts and generous portions of fries, alongside a welcoming atmosphere.
As North Star Dining USA continues to expand its footprint in the fast-casual dining sector, Orlando residents can look forward to the arrival of additional Five Guys locations that promise the same quality and service that have made the brand a favorite among burger enthusiasts.
