Mr. Charlie’s Told Me So (TMS), the plant-based fast food chain, has entered a multimillion-dollar development agreement to open 18 locations across Arizona. This expansion is the brand’s largest to date and represents a key step in its national growth strategy. The first Arizona location is slated to open in Scottsdale in 2025, with additional cities expected to be announced in the coming months.
“We’re planting the seeds of something bigger”
The new stores will introduce Mr. Charlie’s plant-based menu to the Southwest. Signature items include the Not a Cheeseburger and the Frowny Meal, which have gained popularity at existing locations in cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sydney, Australia.
Patrick Lam, an experienced area developer, is partnering with Mr. Charlie’s for this expansion. Lam, who serves as President of Capital Markets at Access Capital Group, views the opening of these 18 stores as more than just a business venture. “We’re planting the seeds of something bigger. These restaurants will be hubs of community, second chances, and delicious food. As an Arizonan, I’m proud to help redefine what fast food looks like in the state,” Lam said.
Arizona is just the beginning
The expansion is part of Mr. Charlie’s franchise rollout across the US, with CEO David Shneer noting that Arizona is just the beginning. “We know that with Patrick Lam in Arizona, we’ve achieved our goal of having an outstanding operations partner,” Shneer said.
As part of this growth, the company has appointed Adam Wilks as President. Wilks brings extensive franchise experience, having previously scaled brands such as Pinkberry®, Cold Stone Creamery®, and Yogen Früz®. Wilks will be responsible for driving the company’s expansion strategy across the US, drawing on his background in brand scaling, operations, and consumer trends.
National development plan
In 2024, former professional boxer Mike Tyson became an investor in Mr. Charlie’s to support its growth initiatives. Additionally, the brand has partnered with delivery platforms like Uber Eats and Postmates to help identify potential locations for future stores. Mr. Charlie’s is now offering franchise opportunities in select US states, expanding its reach as part of its national development plan.
“Mr. Charlie’s has already proven that purpose and profitability can go hand-in-hand in the QSR space,” Wilks commented. “With our Arizona expansion and future growth plans, we aim to continue combining delicious plant-based options with meaningful social impact.”
