MOOYAH adds six Utah restaurants through Depole franchise deal

MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes is expanding in Utah with a new six-unit development agreement from franchisees Art and Nick Depole, building on their four existing locations. The next restaurant is slated to open by summer 2027 as the brand pushes deeper into Salt Lake, Davis, Utah and Washington counties.

Why it matters: - The new deal expands MOOYAH’s Utah footprint in a state where the Depole restaurants already rank among the brand’s top performers. - The agreement gives MOOYAH more coverage across growing suburban and southern Utah markets. - The expansion shows the brand’s franchise model can support multiple site types, including drive-thru and modern pickup-focused layouts.

What happened: - MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes signed a six-unit development deal with franchisees Art and Nick Depole. - The new restaurants are planned for Salt Lake, Davis and Utah counties, plus St. George in Washington County. - The next location is projected to open by summer 2027. - The Depole brothers already own and operate four MOOYAH restaurants in Utah. - Their current Utah locations include Provo, Riverton, Sandy and South Jordan. - The Provo and Riverton restaurants recently opened.

The details: - MOOYAH is a Texas-based burger chain known for made-to-order burgers, hand-cut fries from Idaho potatoes and real ice cream shakes. - Art Depole said he discovered MOOYAH as a customer in California and was drawn to the brand’s fresh, higher-quality ingredients. - Art Depole said the brothers plan to use what they have learned from their current Utah stores as they expand into new markets. - MOOYAH says the Utah restaurants are among the strongest performers in its system. - The Provo location benefits from proximity to Brigham Young University. - The Sandy restaurant serves a busy business district. - MOOYAH currently operates 80 locations in the U.S. and internationally. - The brand’s franchise strategy is designed to fit different real estate opportunities. - Restaurant designs can include a drive-thru, dedicated to-go and third-party pickup areas, kiosks, digital menu boards and flexible seating. - MOOYAH also provides franchise partners with operations, marketing and training support. - Franchising information is available at more information.

Between the lines: - The Depoles’ repeat investment suggests the Utah portfolio is producing results strong enough to justify expansion. - MOOYAH is leaning on franchisees with local operating experience rather than trying to enter Utah with a fresh operator. - The focus on flexible store formats points to a brand trying to match restaurants to modern customer behavior and varied site conditions.

What's next: - MOOYAH and the Depoles will move toward site selection, development and opening timelines for the six planned restaurants. - The first new Utah location is expected to open by summer 2027. - Additional franchising details are available at the company’s franchising site.

The bottom line: - MOOYAH is doubling down on Utah through proven local operators, and the brand sees room to keep growing across multiple counties.