Checkers & Rally’s has strengthened its presence along the U.S. Gulf Coast with the addition of an experienced restaurant operator to its franchise network. Multi-unit franchisee Spencer Marks has acquired 10 Checkers & Rally’s restaurants, including six locations in Mobile, Alabama, and four in Biloxi, Mississippi, with plans to pursue further development across the region. The transaction reflects the brand’s continued strategy of expanding through experienced franchise operators capable of driving operational performance and future unit growth.
Marks brings nearly 20 years of restaurant ownership and operations experience to Checkers & Rally’s. Since entering franchising in 2011, he has built a diversified portfolio of multi-unit, multi-brand restaurants, focusing on market expansion, operational improvements and team development. His background also spans real estate development and business law, positioning him to oversee both restaurant operations and future growth initiatives.
“I’m energized by the revitalization of the Checkers & Rally’s brand and the direction of its operational plans for innovation, reimaging, and expansion in the marketplace,” said Spencer Marks. “Throughout my career, I’ve focused on identifying opportunities where strong leadership and operational excellence can make a meaningful impact. I see tremendous potential across these restaurants, and I’m excited to build great teams, enhance performance, and simultaneously grow our footprint.”
According to the company, Marks intends to build on the existing performance of the Mobile and Biloxi restaurants while investing in employee development, guest experience and future expansion opportunities across the Gulf Coast.
“Spencer brings the operational expertise, business acumen, and growth mindset we look for in our franchise partners,” said Robert Bhagwandat, Senior Director of Franchise Development at Checkers Drive-In Restaurants. “His track record of revitalizing restaurant markets and building high-performing teams makes him an outstanding addition to the Checkers & Rally’s system. We’re excited to welcome Spencer to the brand and look forward to supporting his continued success throughout the Gulf Coast.”
The acquisition aligns with Checkers & Rally’s franchise growth strategy, which prioritizes experienced multi-unit operators capable of acquiring existing restaurants while developing new locations. The company continues to target expansion in key U.S. markets, including South and Central Wisconsin, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Southern California, Las Vegas, Florida and South Carolina.
Operating under the Checkers and Rally’s banners, the brand is recognised for its double drive-thru format, compact real estate footprint and off-premise focused operating model, enabling development on sites requiring less than half an acre.
Based in Tampa, Florida, Checkers & Rally’s operates and franchises more than 700 restaurants across the United States.
