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Checkers Burger Chain Opens First Location in Worcester, MA

The new Checkers Burger Chain aims to attract burger lovers in Worcester.

News Summary

Checkers, the drive-thru burger chain, is set to open its first New England restaurant in Worcester, Massachusetts, at 99 Gold Star Blvd. Experienced operators Mouhamad Saleem and Kelly Moughal will manage the new location, which will also feature indoor seating and a fenced patio, setting it apart from typical Checkers outlets. While the opening date remains uncertain, this expansion marks a significant move for Checkers in the competitive New England market, where it currently has no other locations.

Worcester, Massachusetts Welcomes Checkers Burger Chain

Checkers, the popular burger chain known for its drive-thru service and distinctive menu, has announced plans to open its first New England location in Worcester, Massachusetts. The restaurant will occupy the former site of Honey Dew Donuts at 99 Gold Star Blvd., which closed earlier this year in March.

The new Worcester Checkers will be managed by experienced operators Mouhamad Saleem and Kelly Moughal, who already oversee multiple Checkers restaurants across New York. In addition to their venture with Checkers, Saleem and Moughal also operate locations of Subway and Little Caesars in Worcester, showcasing their commitment to the local dining scene.

Real estate firm Kelleher & Sadowsky Associates handled the lease transaction, with brokers Mark Johns and Thomas Bodden representing the landlord in the deal. While the opening date for the new Checkers remains uncertain, estimates indicate it could be ready to serve customers within the next three to six months.

Current Dining Landscape and Future Prospects

Currently, Checkers has no other locations in Massachusetts or the broader New England area. The nearest existing outlets are located in New York, where there are 32 Checkers and Rally’s restaurants. Overall, Checkers operates a total of 751 locations across the United States, making this expansion significant for its market presence.

The menu at Checkers is diverse, featuring items such as hamburgers, french fries, chicken tenders, hot dogs, sandwiches, slushies, and milkshakes. Among its offerings, the seasoned fries have received particularly favorable reviews, with options that include cheese chili and garlic Parmesan varieties.

One unique aspect of the Worcester location is that it will include indoor seating and a fenced-in patio, distinguishing it from many other Checkers outlets that primarily focus on drive-thru service. This new dining arrangement may enhance customer experience by providing additional space for patrons who prefer to dine in.

A Strategic Move in a Competitive Market

The decision to locate Checkers in the former Honey Dew site was influenced by various factors, including the site’s history of successful tenants, such as Jolly Giant Subs. Its advantageous position near other fast-food establishments like Chick-fil-A and Kelly’s Roast Beef positions it well to attract a steady flow of customers. The high-traffic area makes it suitable for quick-service dining.

Checkers’ choice of location was also strategic in terms of acquiring a drive-thru feature, which has become increasingly challenging to obtain in densely populated areas. Tom Bodden from Kelleher & Sadowsky highlighted this consideration as a key factor in finalizing the site for the new restaurant.

Community Familiarity and Restaurant Experience

Saleem and Moughal’s familiarity with the Worcester market is expected to play a vital role in the success of this new Checkers location. Their prior experience in managing various restaurant types in the city will aid in addressing both operational challenges and catering to local customer preferences.

In conclusion, the arrival of Checkers in Worcester marks an exciting development for burger lovers and the local dining economy. With its anticipated opening, the fast-food chain aims to bring its unique offerings and drive-thru convenience to a new audience, establishing itself within the competitive New England market.