A Des Moines, Iowa-born restaurant company is seeking to grow its footprint in Wisconsin through franchising in markets like Milwaukee and Racine, among other regions in the state.
Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, which currently boasts a dozen locations including Middleton and Eau Claire, said Tuesday that it’s planning to bring five new locations to the state over the next three years. The company is targeting markets such as Racine, Kenosha, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Janesville and Sheboygan and is on the hunt for franchise operators to bring the restaurant concept there.
Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse — which describes its ambience as “reminiscent of the classic supper clubs of the 40s and 50s,” according to its website — is seeking to award 24 restaurant units by 2020. In Wisconsin, a location in Sun Prairie is set to open in August.
The restaurant serves a variety of sandwiches, appetizers, steaks, salads, beefs, pasta and seafood, among other entrees. The company estimates that locations, on average, generate more than $2.6 million in median annual gross revenue.
“We are beyond excited to expand the Johnny’s brand footprint in Wisconsin,” said Mike Whalen, CEO of Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse in a news release. “Through smart, strategic growth and finding the right franchisees to partner with, we know we will continue to see success and positive results in the area.”