Blaze?n Burrito?s Revenue Sizzling

Business at Fort Smith-based Blaze’n Burrito has been hot since the restaurant opened in September 2005. Revenue doubled from $300,000 in 2005 to $600,000 last year, said owner John Moates.

Moates and his wife Vanessa Moates, also a co-owner, are looking into ways to grow their business, including new stores and possible franchise operations. They’re currently looking for investors interested in partnering on new stores.

A second location on the south side of town is in the works, and will likely mean construction of a new building.

The restaurant’s build-your-own-burrito concept was the first of its type in Fort Smith, and it took a while to catch on, said Marshall Stutts, general manager and managing partner for Blaze’n Burrito.

“But overall the local response has been great,” he said, adding that many of the store’s regulars show up twice a week.

A marketing campaign including TV spots and ads in regional publications has helped the restaurant grow, John Moates said.

The restaurant employs about 12, and also offers catering, averaging six to seven catering events each week. The catering service can accommodate events of up to 1,000 people or more, he said.