#United States #Grand Rapids #Cousins Maine Lobster #lobster rolls

Cousins Maine Lobster Expands Its Reach

Cousins Maine Lobster (CML) has officially set its sights on Grand Rapids, Michigan, marking a significant expansion with the introduction of a new food truck. This addition not only brings the iconic taste of Maine lobster to the local community but also signifies the brand's 85th operating unit, coinciding with their 13th anniversary celebration.

A Promising Debut in Grand Rapids

Launching on April 26, the newest food truck will be at Speciation Cellars, located at 928 Wealthy St SE, where they will host a ribbon-cutting event and launch party that invites the community to immerse themselves in the lobster experience. The brand's essence revolves around delivering high-quality seafood directly to customers – a mission that resonates with the new operators, Hussein (Hank) Kdouh, Muhammed (Moe) Zahr, and Rabih Zahr. Together, they represent the second market for the franchise, having successfully introduced food trucks in Detroit earlier.

Five-Star Seafood on Wheels

What sets this food truck apart? The menu features an array of delectable offerings, including CML’s legendary Maine lobster rolls, savory lobster grilled cheese, mouthwatering lobster tacos and of course, delicious whoopie pies – all designed to tantalize the taste buds of seafood enthusiasts.

Hank expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re thrilled to bring our third Cousins Maine Lobster food truck to the Grand Rapids community. From day one, our goal has been to recreate the incredible experience we had when we first tried Cousins Maine Lobster.” His partners, Moe and Rabih, share that passion, driven by a commitment to excellence in both food quality and customer service.

Consistent Growth and Community Engagement

The success of the Michigan franchisees stems from their deep-rooted friendship, exceptional customer engagement, and a steadfast focus on bringing high-quality seafood from the sea straight to the streets. After launching their first truck in Detroit during summer 2022, they quickly followed it with a second truck due to high demand. Their growth is indicative of a strategic plan that is responsive to the local market’s needs.

As part of the brand's strategic expansion, plans for their fourth truck are already underway, with its debut expected in Kalamazoo this coming June.

Angela Coppler, Cousins Maine Lobster's Head of Development, praises the trio’s ventures since joining the brand three years ago, showcasing their leadership in the seafood sector. According to her, “We’re confident their newest truck in Grand Rapids will have the same energy and success they’ve seen in Detroit.”

A Community Celebration

The Grand Rapids debut is set to be an event worth attending. The inaugural day promises an enjoyable experience, ensuring community members can partake in the growing lobster food truck craze. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy fresh lobster dishes while contributing to a community that emphasizes local and accessible culinary delights.

The Future Looks Bright

Cousins Maine Lobster started as a passion project founded by cousins Jim Tselikis and Sabin Lomac back in 2012, and it quickly expanded nationally after securing an investment on Shark Tank. Their mission remains unchanged: to deliver authentic Maine lobster and seafood experiences that are anchored in hospitality and quality.

As they continue to grow, CML is on the lookout for franchisees across various regions, with significant interest in markets like Seattle, San Diego, Reno, and areas throughout the Midwest, including St. Louis and Des Moines, aligning with their commitment to serving exceptional seafood experiences.

For those interested in franchise opportunities, more details can be found on the Cousins Maine Lobster website. As they continue to expand, there’s an invitation for seafood lovers everywhere to experience the fresh, savory taste of Maine lobster in their own communities. Don't miss the grand opening of CML in Grand Rapids – it’s sure to be a celebration of flavor and community!