Sun Holdings to Open 98 McAlister’s Deli Locations

McAlister's Deli  announced the signing of a new development deal with Best Choice Restaurants, an affiliate of Sun Holdings Inc., a franchise organization founded by mega multi-unit operator Guillermo Perales.

 As part of the deal, the franchisee will spearhead McAlister's Deli's growth in Florida, Louisiana and Texas, in addition to developing 47 restaurants over the next seven years. The company consolidated several franchises to get to 51 locations throughout the four states: 36 in Texas, eight in Florida, four in New Mexico and three in Louisiana. The agreement marks Perales' entry into the fast-casual restaurant space.

"This particular development deal marks a very significant milestone for our brand, as it is one of the largest number of franchises that we have sold in a single transaction in our company history. This transaction accelerates our nationwide growth plans. Perales is the owner and operator of several iconic brands, and his investment in McAlister's Deli showcases the strength of our business model and franchise opportunity," said Joe Guith, president of McAlister's Deli. 

Sun Holdings operates Burger King, Arby's, Golden Corral, CiCi's, Krispy Kreme, T-Mobile, Taco Bueno, McAlister's Deli and GNC locations across the country. During the past three years, the company has developed more than 200 locations and 200 remodels. In addition to multiple awards and recognitions, Perales was named Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year in 2008, as well as Latino Leaders Magazine's 101 Most Influential Latinos for several consecutive years.