RISE - Menu Monitor

Ground Round Grill & Bar
Headquarters
500 U.S. Route One, Freeport, Maine 04032 USA
Tel: (207)865-4433 Fax: (781)380-3207
www.groundround.com
Ownership: Private
Segment: Full Service Varied Menu
System Characteristics 2006 2005 2004
U.S. Systemwide Sales ($000) 88,000 90,000 103,600
Company-owned ($000) - - 10,600
Franchised ($000) 88,000 90,000 93,000
U.S. Number of Units 57 60 64
Company-owned - - -
Franchised 57 60 64
International Sales ($000) - - -
International Units - - -
Average Sales/Unit ($000) 1,525 1,500 1,450
Concept Positioning |
The Ground Round Grill & Bar is a full-service, varied-menu restaurant chain. Run by the privately-held Independent Owners
Cooperative LLC, Ground Round boasts a friendly atmosphere inviting to families with children. With an extensive menu of
appetizers, entrees and cocktails, the chain additionally offers full liquor service. Ground Round Grill & Bar is 100% franchised,
operating in more than 20 states in the U.S.
Most units are freestanding and both located in suburban and metropolitan areas. Interiors present a light and airy look, with
skylights and greenhouses, but a certain rustic flavor has been preserved from the original design concept with selected lighthearted
artifacts described as “faux American.” Newer units have a more contemporary feel, with a tan, burgundy red and
brick color scheme dominating. Due to an increasing customer base, the interior has been updated with an abundance of
booths. The casual-dining chain offers table delivery, takeout and full bar service. The units average approximately 5,600 sq.
ft. and seat 210 patrons. Two separate dining rooms are used and the main room is designed to appeal to families. Its
separate adult bar and lounge area are important features; the area averages 1,400 sq. ft. with seating for 70 and accounts for
15–20% of sales.
The Howard Johnson Corp. opened the first Ground Round in 1969. In 1978, a major franchising drive was launched. In the
1980s, it was included in several acquisitions and eventually fell under the ownership of GR Foods, Inc. In mid-1991, GR
Foods became a publicly held corporation known as Ground Round Restaurants, Inc. In late 1997, Boston Ventures
completed its buy out of the company, thereby taking it private. American Hospitality Concepts, Inc., operated the chain and
for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2004 which led to the closing of 60 Ground Round locations. Subsequently, the company sold all
franchise rights to a group of Ground Round franchisees in mid-2004. Recently the company announced the planned launch of
nearly 10 new units.
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