If you are looking for information on the Big Al's Steaks franchise business opportunity, Big Al's Steak franchises or Big Al's Steaks franchising, then you have come to the right place.
Founded in Coconut Creek, FL, in 2006 by Adam and Alan (Big Al) Costilo, Big Al's Steaks® is a brand that has become synonymous with authentic Philly Steak Sandwiches in South Florida. Big Al's Steaks® serves freshly prepared, high quality, Philly Style Sandwiches and sides at competitive prices. Big Al's differentiates itself from its competitors in the attention to details in the preparation of its products, easy to deliver menus, comfortable Philadelphia ambiance (complete with authentic desserts and beverages straight from the source) and efficient operating systems. Big Al's has positioned itself as the best and only option for truly authentic Philadelphia Steak Sandwiches in the highly competitive QSR sandwich shop market.
As we all know the proper selection of a business's location is a vital component to its success. Therefore, we carefully research and select every Big Al's Steals site analyzing factors such as traffic patterns and client potential. Once all criteria are met and a location has been selected, we assist in negotiating your lease and your store's build-out.
It is only when you are comfortable with your location, lease terms and marketing area that we move to the next phase of the process - we assist you in the transition to ownership and the start-up process begins.
As a result of our extensive training programs, Big Al's Steaks franchisees are trained experts in the Big Al's Steaks operating system before they ever open their own location's doors.
Our comprehensive program includes multiple phases of training including:
A seven day introductory training program (including travel and lodging expenses) at Big Al's Steaks University located at our corporate headquarters in West Palm Beach, Florida where you will learn all aspects of the business such as food preparation and delivery as well as, marketing, advertising, scheduling and bookkeeping.
Our role doesn't end when you open your doors. As a Big Al's Steaks franchisee, you gain the full resources of our team which is committed to helping you make your store a success through continued training, consulting, marketing, equipment, research and technical support.
Join the Big Al's family and experience the satisfaction of owning your own business while enjoying the benefits that come from being part of a growing brand that people know and trust.
The information presented may have changed since first published. We recommend that you always verify fees, investment amounts and offers with the business opportunity directly prior to making a decision to invest.
1. What training and ongoing support do you provide?
You want to know what happens after you pay the initial fee. A strong franchisor provides comprehensive pre-opening training, site-selection help, operational playbooks, and continuous assistance with marketing, technology, and supply chains.
2. What is the total initial investment, and did actual startup costs match the estimates in Item 7 of the FDD?
The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) lists estimated startup costs in Item 7, but real-world expenses can run higher. Asking how closely current owners tracked to these estimates reveals if you need extra working capital or if hidden fees exist.
3. How do royalties and local/national marketing fees impact profitability?
You need to understand ongoing financial obligations-such as monthly royalty percentages and ad fund contributions-and evaluate whether the brand value and support justify cutting into your profit margins.
4. What are the common challenges new franchisees face, and how do you help them overcome them?
Transparent franchisors will openly discuss real hurdles like local competition, tight labor markets, or supply chain bottlenecks, and show you the exact playbook or field support they offer to solve them as well as allowing you to speak with other franchisees.
5. How many franchise locations have closed or left the system in the past few years, and why?
High turnover, store closures, or quiet franchise exits are major red flags. This question measures system stability, territory health, and whether the corporate team addresses struggling owners or lets them fail.
Food and Beverage Franchises