The Saxton Group: Company Profile

Background

Overview

The Saxton Group, established in 1982, is a prominent multi-unit restaurant franchisee headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The company specializes in operating McAlister's Deli locations across multiple states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Nebraska. As of January 2026, The Saxton Group manages over 80 McAlister's Deli restaurants, making it one of the largest franchisees in the McAlister's system.

Mission and Vision

The Saxton Group is committed to delivering genuine hospitality to its guests and fostering a supportive environment for its employees. The company emphasizes growth and development, aiming to expand its presence in existing markets and explore new opportunities within the restaurant industry.

Industry Significance

As a leading franchisee, The Saxton Group plays a crucial role in the expansion and success of the McAlister's Deli brand. Its significant presence in multiple states contributes to the brand's recognition and growth in the fast-casual dining sector.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Expansion: The Saxton Group focuses on increasing the number of McAlister's Deli locations in its operating regions, aiming to enhance brand visibility and accessibility.

Operational Excellence: The company strives to maintain high standards of service and quality across all its restaurants, ensuring a consistent and positive customer experience.

Areas of Specialization

Franchise Management: Expertise in managing multiple restaurant locations, including staff training, inventory control, and customer service.

Market Development: Identifying and capitalizing on new market opportunities to introduce and establish the McAlister's Deli brand.

Key Technologies Utilized

Kitchen Management Systems: The Saxton Group has partnered with QSR Automations to implement ConnectSmart kitchen management, enhancing operational efficiency and order accuracy.

Primary Markets Targeted

Regional Expansion: The company targets urban and suburban areas within Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Nebraska, focusing on regions with growing populations and demand for fast-casual dining options.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

In 2013, The Saxton Group transitioned to a 100% employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), allowing employees to earn shares over time.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

The transition to employee ownership was facilitated by partnerships with CapitalSpring and Long Point Capital.

Utilization of Capital

The capital from the ESOP was utilized to finance the purchase of additional McAlister's Deli locations, supporting the company's expansion efforts.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

New Restaurant Openings: The Saxton Group plans to open 3-5 new McAlister's Deli units annually, with similar or higher growth levels in subsequent years.

Stages of Development

Site Selection: Identifying optimal locations based on demographic analysis and market demand.

Construction and Setup: Building and equipping new restaurant locations to meet brand standards.

Staffing and Training: Recruiting and training staff to ensure high-quality service from the outset.

Target Conditions

Urban and Suburban Areas: Focusing on regions with growing populations and a demand for fast-casual dining options.

Anticipated Milestones

Annual Openings: Achieving the goal of opening 3-5 new units each year, with potential for increased growth in subsequent years.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Employee Training Programs: Developing comprehensive training programs to ensure consistent service quality across all locations.

Significant Scientific Methods

Operational Efficiency: Implementing kitchen management systems like ConnectSmart to streamline operations and improve order accuracy.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Kelly Saxton: Founder and Executive Chairman, with extensive experience in the restaurant industry, having established The Saxton Group in 1982.

Adam Saxton: Vice President, responsible for overseeing operations and strategic initiatives, contributing to the company's growth and success.

Matt Saxton: Vice President, focusing on business development and expansion efforts, playing a key role in market growth.

Key Contributions

Expansion Leadership: Guiding the company through significant growth phases, including the transition to employee ownership and the acquisition of additional restaurant locations.

Operational Excellence: Implementing systems and processes that enhance efficiency and service quality across all restaurant locations.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Market Size and Growth Potential: The fast-casual dining sector continues to expand, with increasing consumer demand for quality, quick-service meals.

Industry Trends: A focus on health-conscious menu options, technological integration for operational efficiency, and sustainable practices are shaping the industry landscape.

Competitor Analysis

Key Competitors: Other large franchisees within the McAlister's Deli system and regional fast-casual dining chains.

Competitive Landscape: The Saxton Group maintains a strong position through its extensive experience, employee ownership model, and commitment to operational excellence.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Significant Collaborations

QSR Automations: Partnered to implement ConnectSmart kitchen management, enhancing operational efficiency.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Expansion into New Markets: Exploring opportunities to introduce McAlister's Deli to additional states and regions.

Brand Diversification: Considering the development of other restaurant concepts to complement the existing portfolio.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

Market Position: Leveraging its status as the largest McAlister's Deli franchisee to negotiate favorable terms and attract top talent.

Competitive Advantages: Employee ownership fosters a dedicated workforce, and the company's experience in multi-unit management ensures efficient operations.