Buona, which operates 26 locations across metro Chicago and Northwest Indiana, is eyeing national expansion with a new franchise partner.
The company launched Chicago’s Original Italian Beef Franchising LLC, a program which Buona hopes will help it expand to high-growth Midwest markets as well as to Florida, Texas, Colorado, Tennessee and Arizona. The new program provides experienced entrepreneurs and seasoned investors the opportunity to enter the fast-casual dining market with an original Italian Beef concept, plus the potential to add an Original Rainbow Cone ice cream kiosk.
Buona was founded in 1981 by Joe and Peggy Buonavolanto.
“It has always been our family’s dream to bring Buona to every family, every city and every community across the United States,” said Joe Buonavolanto Ill, third generation family member and vice president of franchise operations at Buona. The company plans to open more than 100 combined franchised and company-owned locations over the next five years.
The Buona franchise partnership program is open to experienced entrepreneurs and investors interested in multi-unit opportunities. Initial investment figures range between $1.57 million and $2.62 million.
