Texas Roadhouse is making waves in Great Falls as it moves forward with plans to build a brand-new restaurant. A permit application was filed on December 4, signaling the restaurant chain’s next big move in Montana. The site, located at 1220 10th Ave. S., previously hosted Fiesta En Jalisco and Mi Rancho, and it’s set for a full-scale demolition to make room for the new structure.
The proposed location, just outside the Holiday Village Mall, underscores the F&B franchise’s commitment to creating prime dining experiences in accessible locations. However, the road to this expansion has been anything but smooth, marked by lawsuits, environmental concerns, and lease negotiations.
The journey to bringing Texas Roadhouse to Great Falls has involved more than just building plans. GK Holiday Village, the mall’s owner, has been locked in a civil lawsuit with Ross Dress for Less, a current mall tenant, since May 2023. The crux of the issue lies in the mall’s lease agreements. Ross has argued that the proposed new building for Texas Roadhouse breaches certain lease provisions, including height restrictions and the timing of approvals.
In response, GK alleges Ross has unreasonably delayed and withheld consent for the project, accusing them of interfering with plans to rejuvenate the mall. This ongoing legal dispute is now scheduled for a jury trial in December 2026.
Another twist in the tale involved a shocking discovery during Texas Roadhouse’s initial due diligence. The site’s soil and groundwater were found to be contaminated with benzene, a hazardous chemical. This revelation led the restaurant chain to cancel its initial lease agreement in August 2023. However, after renegotiations, Texas Roadhouse appears to have reached a new agreement with the mall to address these concerns.
Despite the legal and environmental setbacks, Texas Roadhouse remains committed to expanding its footprint in Great Falls. While city officials are currently reviewing permit applications, a firm construction timeline has not yet been announced. This development is part of Texas Roadhouse’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in key markets.
The addition of Texas Roadhouse to Great Falls represents more than just a new restaurant; it’s a significant moment for the franchise F&B industry. As the Holiday Village Mall navigates tenant disputes and revitalization efforts, the success of this project could set a precedent for future franchise partnerships in the area.
Moreover, this case highlights the challenges franchises often face, from navigating legal complexities to addressing environmental compliance, all while balancing consumer expectations.
Franchise investors should keep an eye on Great Falls as a developing market for F&B brands. With consumer preferences evolving and communities seeking new dining options, opportunities abound for entrepreneurs in the franchise sector. The Texas Roadhouse case also underscores the importance of strategic planning, legal foresight, and adaptability in the competitive F&B landscape.
VF Franchise Consulting offers a one-stop solution for investors interested in bringing renowned global brands like Texas Roadhouse s to new markets. Our team provides end-to-end support, from legal consultation and strategic planning to marketing and operational guidance, ensuring smooth market entry and long-term franchise success.
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