The Ford-themed brand has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with the motor company to build 15 locations by 2025.
The first Ford’s Garage was opened in Fort Myers, Florida in 2012, close to Henry Ford’s winter home.
Since then, the brand has opened 16 restaurants, with 14 in Florida and one each in Michigan and Indiana.
Ford’s Garage now plans to add another 15 locations to its portfolio by the end of the year, and deals have been signed for 11 of them in Florida, Kentucky, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Texas. The brand currently plans to open 10-15 locations a year after 2022.
“That’s to start with,” said brand president Steve Shlemon.
“We’re proud of how far we’ve come along and excited about where we’re going. With our many Ford-inspired design cues and first-rate service, Ford’s Garage promises to continue to inspire additional locations all across the country.”
At the time, the restaurant had no affiliation with Ford Motor Company, however, the automaker soon heard of the venture and decided to sign a license agreement in 2016 and build the brand together. That makes Ford’s Garage the only restaurant licensed to use Ford’s logo and imagery in its brand. As a result, there is strong Ford branding across the restaurant, from vintage Fords adorning the restaurant to servers dressed like mechanics.
“Every aspect is branded, it’s lots and lots of fun for everybody,” said Shlemon.
The restaurant is a typical craft beer and burger operation, with a huge variety of craft beers available. Locations are expected to be around 8,900 sq. feet and require around 95 to 115 employees.
“Ford’s Garage has proven itself a turnkey operation that will be a popular dining out choice in any neighborhood,” noted Shlemon.
“We look forward to welcoming new franchise partners to the family and serving up even more of our burgers nationwide with a side of automotive history.”
