Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks has secured a multi-year deal with the Orlando Magic, which will bring the growing franchise to Florida inside the Kia Center in Orlando. The move brings the cheesesteak franchise with humble beginnings to the Sunshine State.
“The Magic are thrilled to team up with Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks and be the first to welcome the franchise to Central Florida,” said Magic Senior Vice President of Global Partnerships J.T. McWalters.
“As two companies that believe in the power of teamwork, we look forward to working with the first franchise in Florida and its new owner, Derek Lewis. We can’t wait to connect Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks with our local community and give our fans a taste of what it’s all about.”
“I’m thrilled to bring Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks to the heart of Orlando’s sports and entertainment scene,” said Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks’ first franchise owner Derek Lewis. “This partnership with the Orlando Magic and Kia Center represents a perfect fusion of exceptional food and exhilarating basketball. Opening our doors on October 11 during the preseason is just the beginning of what, I believe, will be a game-changing presence in the arena.”
Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks was founded by Derrick Hayes, who recently launched an ambitious plan to open 100 franchise locations by the end of 2025, and he has begun accepting official applications to purchase a Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks franchise. According to him, franchising is something that has always been part of his vision, and the time is now rife.
“I’m a visionary; I’m a dreamer,” Hayes told CNBC Made It. “Franchising is something that I thought about years ago, but I didn’t have the experience or the team to do it.”
Data from the International Franchise Association shows that only 8% of franchise owners are black. What is more, the data also shows that black franchisees have revenues 220% higher than independent Black-owned businesses on average.
Hayes said he is exploring the franchisee model to help black entrepreneurs escape hurdles, including those who do not have a college degree or lack the experience to follow their dreams of owning a business.
“I wasn’t an entrepreneur; I wasn’t a businessman. I’m making it for the people. If they want to get involved with what we’re building, we are going to help them up,” Hayes said.
Hayes started Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks as Big Dave’s Water Ice, as Italian ice is known in Philadelphia. It was first launched in a gas station in Dunwoody, Georgia, in 2014. However, the business was renamed after Hayes’ late father, who inspired his passion for entrepreneurship.
“I watched my father die in front of me. He asked me to make him a promise,” Hayes said, recalling his father’s final words. “I don’t want you to work like I did my whole life and have nothing to show for it.”
Hayes switched to cheesesteaks after his frozen treats failed to gain traction. However, his latest move did not become an instant hit. He struggled for traction until rapper, actress, and TV host Eve, also a Philadelphia native, stopped by for a cheesesteak.
“History in the making,” Hayes wrote of his deal with Orlando Magic. “This isn’t just an expansion; it’s a SLAM DUNK for food and basketball enthusiasts!”
“This moment is bigger than basketball. It’s about dreams, determination, and divine blessings. God’s plan is unfolding, and we’re humbled to be part of the Magic family.”
