Melt Shop, the pioneers of the melted sandwich movement, announced the signing of its first domestic franchise agreement with 717 Food Group, led by Roxanne Mallilo with her brother Michael Manniello acting as her partner. The brother-and-sister duo has over 40 years of combined experience in hospitality and restaurants, with a prominent presence in airports. 717 Food Group will open their first Melt Shop in Staten Island Mall, in Staten Island, New York, in 2018.
“When my brother approached me about opening Melt Shop’s first franchised restaurant, I jumped at the opportunity,” said Mallilo, chief executive officer of 717 Food Group. “Aside from its phenomenal product, we were blown away by Melt Shop’s business model, operational excellence, and the unparalleled support we received from its dedicated and passionate team. We’re thrilled to stand behind an emerging concept and continue to grow with the brand.”
Melt Shop’s focus is simple: melted sandwiches made with high-quality ingredients. The product and processes have been meticulously refined for more than six years. But Melt Shop does more than create melted sandwich masterpieces — it creates a culinary experience unmatched in the fast-casual space. The food unlocks the feelings, memories and moments that bring people joy. It’s a reminder of the good, simple, carefree things in life. Founded by Spencer Rubin in 2011, Melt Shop currently has eight corporate locations throughout New York, Philadelphia, and Minneapolis, and recently signed a multi-unit deal to open seven restaurants in the Middle East, in which four will open by the second quarter of 2018. The brand plans to grow to 100 locations over the next five years.