Can I open an Express Unit near ASU and Mill Avenue in Tempe?

Yes. Our Express Unit format is specifically engineered for high-foot-traffic university blocks like Mill Avenue, University Drive and Apache Boulevard where walk-up and third-party delivery orders dominate.

How long does it typically take to open a Tempe franchise?

Most franchisees open within an average of 6 to 9 months after signing, depending on site condition, permitting and buildout across Maricopa County.

What makes Nash & Smashed different from other fast-casual concepts?

Nash & Smashed stands out from other fast-casual concepts by seamlessly combining Nashville-Style Sandwiches, Fried Chicken, and Smashed Burgers in a unique, customizable menu format. The commitment to using high-quality ingredients sets the brand apart, ensuring exceptional quality in every dish. Additionally, the array of signature sauces enhances the flavor experience, allowing guests to tailor their meals to suit individual tastes. A strong focus on community engagement further distinguishes Nash & Smashed, as it actively supports local initiatives and fosters connections within the neighborhoods it serves.

What is the typical timeline from signing to opening a location?

The average timeline from signing a franchise agreement to the opening day is around 6-9 months. However, it's important to note that this process can take up to 6-8 months after site selection due to factors such as lease negotiations, permitting, construction, and training schedules.

Do I need restaurant experience to be a franchise owner?

While restaurant experience is beneficial, it's not required. We're looking for passionate entrepreneurs with strong business acumen, leadership skills, and dedication to customer service. Our comprehensive training program will teach you all aspects of operating a Nash & Smashed restaurant.

What store formats and space requirements does Nash & Smashed offer?

Franchise partners can apply for three distinct operating formats: a Full Restaurant, an Express Unit, or a Food Truck. Full inline and endcap restaurant locations require a minimum footprint of 1,600 square feet, while Express Units are engineered for compact urban storefronts, college corridors, and high-foot-traffic retail centers.

What training and corporate support do franchise owners receive?

Every franchise owner completes 40 hours of structured training — 6 hours in the classroom and 34 hours on the job — covering kitchen execution, inventory systems, staffing, and day-to-day leadership. Beyond initial training, our corporate team delivers 12 pre-opening and post-opening support commitments spanning site selection, architectural layout, vendor onboarding, grand-opening marketing, and ongoing field operations.

How do I receive investment details and explore financing options?

Complete startup costs, fee structures, and itemized investment tables are provided in our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and franchise brochure after you submit an initial inquiry. Prospective franchise owners commonly explore SBA 7(a) loans, Rollovers as Business Startups (ROBS 401(k) rollovers), and Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC) with their financial advisors.

Where does Nash & Smashed currently operate and where can I open a location?

Nash & Smashed serves guests across Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, and Canberra, Australia, with active franchise expansion across the East Coast and adjacent metropolitan corridors.

Bring Nash & Smashed to Tempe, AZ

Capture college, corporate waterfront and East Valley freeway traffic across Mill Avenue, ASU's flagship campus, Tempe Marketplace and the US-60 / Loop 101 / Loop 202 crossroads.

National franchise overview · Arizona franchise guide

Tempe sits at the geographic center of Greater Phoenix where Loop 101, Loop 202, US-60 and I-10 converge around Arizona State University's main campus. Tens of thousands of students along Mill Avenue, University Drive, Apache Boulevard and Rural Road pair with major financial and tech employers at Marina Heights and the Novus Innovation Corridor along Tempe Town Lake.

Customizable heat levels on Nashville-style sandwiches, crispy fried chicken, Oklahoma Smashed burgers, hand-spun shakes and signature Mojitos align directly with ASU's daytime walk-up rush and late-evening delivery culture, while South Tempe neighborhoods along Baseline and Elliot roads supply steady family dinner traffic.

Nonstop student and tech demand at the Mill Avenue and Loop 101/202 nexus

Mill Avenue, University Drive & Apache Boulevard (ASU Campus Core): Streetcar and Valley Metro Rail blocks packed with student apartments and late-night fast-casual demand.
Tempe Marketplace & Novus Innovation Corridor (Loop 101 & Loop 202): High-volume open-air retail and entertainment hub minutes from Sun Devil Stadium and Town Lake offices.
South Tempe — Baseline Road, Elliot Road & Rural / McClintock Plazas: Established grocery-anchored centers, Arizona Mills traffic and commuter access off I-10 and US-60.

Bring Nash & Smashed to Tempe, AZ

Nonstop student and tech demand at the Mill Avenue and Loop 101/202 nexus

Tempe, AZ concept guides & nearby markets