Drew Brees-backed Smalls Sliders announces big expansion in Tampa Bay

orange shipping container drive thru burger joint
Exterior of a typical Smalls Sliders | Photo via Smalls Sliders (FB)

One of the greatest quarterbacks of all time is bringing his celebrated burger joint to Tampa. Smalls Sliders is expanding its presence in the Sunshine State with a significant 9-Can agreement in Tampa, led by the powerhouse franchise operating group Purple Square Management (PSM). Under the leadership of CEO Vik Patel, PSM, boasting over 250 franchise locations nationwide, is already familiar with Smalls Sliders, having struck a deal in 2023 for 6 Cans in Atlanta. This strategic move aligns with the brand’s escalating reputation and growth trajectory.

These bright orange, shipping container concepts boast fast-casual fare with burger patties packed with flavor. Nothing compares to those toasted butter buns with those perfectly crunchy pickle chips.

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Classic Smalls Slider on a toasted buttered bun and waffle fries | Photo via Smalls Sliders

Vik Patel and partners Sanjay Patel and Alex Deitch plan to open the first Can within the agreement by Q4 2024, followed by 8 more locations. According to a press release, the PSM team is actively scouting potential development sites across Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Lakeland, Spring Hill, Sarasota, Cape Coral, and Naples.

Maria Rivera, CEO of Smalls Sliders, expressed excitement about Florida’s burgeoning Smalls Sliders presence and the PSM team’s commitment. Since launching its first ‘Smorange™’-colored Can in 2019, The restaurant has disrupted the QSR scene, boasting a leadership team, a robust development pipeline, and over 160 Cans in operation or development. Notably, the brand earned accolades such as being featured in Nation’s Restaurant News’ “Breakout Brands of 2023” and securing a spot on QSR Magazine’s prestigious QSR 50 Contenders list. The momentum continues with recognition on Entrepreneur magazine’s “Top New & Emerging Franchises” list in 2023. Get ready, Tampa, Smalls Sliders is on its way.

Follow Smalls Sliders on its website and Facebook to learn more about the spot. We will update this story as official locations are announced.

We are also eagerly awaiting the arrival of Shaq’s Big Chicken in Tampa.

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