Bowling Green, Kentucky, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Smalls Sliders, a popular cheeseburger slider brand, announces its expansion into Kentucky and Tennessee with four new locations set for 2026. Entrepreneur Matthew Robinson, who is also a general surgeon, has signed a franchising agreement to open restaurants in Bowling Green, Clarksville, and Henderson. This follows the brand’s previous franchise agreements in Lexington and Knoxville. Smalls Sliders, known for its quality and speed, aims to introduce its unique fast-food experience to local communities while creating job opportunities.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – Smalls Sliders, a rapidly growing cheeseburger slider brand known for its quality and speedy service, is set to expand into Kentucky and Tennessee with four new restaurant locations scheduled to open in 2026. The brand has signed a new franchising agreement with entrepreneur Matthew Robinson, who will launch these locations in Bowling Green, Kentucky, as well as Clarksville and Henderson in Tennessee.
This expansion marks Smalls Sliders’ second entry into both Kentucky and Tennessee, following recent franchise agreements for additional locations in Lexington, Kentucky, and Knoxville, Tennessee. Matthew Robinson, a board-certified general surgeon with over 15 years of experience, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the growing quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector through this venture. Robinson is currently in search of suitable real estate for the new establishments.
Richard Leveille, the Vice President of Franchising at Smalls Sliders, emphasized that Tennessee and Kentucky are strategically significant markets for the brand’s growth. Smalls Sliders began its operations in 2019 and has since expanded to over 375 locations across 30 states. The brand’s unique dining experience centers around freshly made cheeseburger sliders, seasoned waffle fries, and an array of hand-spun milkshakes, all served from their signature Smorange™-colored shipping containers.
Expansion Strategy
Smalls Sliders aims to introduce its concept to local communities through this expansion, with a straightforward menu designed for quality and speed. Customers can choose from various slider combinations, fries, drinks, and milkshake flavors, all crafted to meet demand efficiently.
Notable Investors
In addition to Robinson’s involvement, Smalls Sliders has attracted significant investments from prominent figures, including former NFL star Drew Brees and 10 Point Capital. This backing is part of the brand’s strategy to capture a broader market in the fast-paced dining landscape.
Future Developments
The new locations are anticipated to not only broaden Smalls Sliders’ footprint but also to provide job opportunities and boost the local economy in these areas. With Robinson leading this venture, there’s an optimistic outlook for successful store openings and community engagement by 2026.
Background on Smalls Sliders
Since its inception in 2019, Smalls Sliders has swiftly become a favorite among burger enthusiasts by focusing on a simple yet effective menu. The brand prides itself on offering a unique fast-food experience that balances quality food with quick service. The expansion into Kentucky and Tennessee signifies a continued commitment to growth and accessibility for customers craving their signature sliders.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Type | Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) |
| New Locations | Bowling Green, Kentucky; Clarksville, Tennessee; Henderson, Tennessee |
| Opening Year | 2026 |
| Franchisee | Matthew Robinson, a board-certified general surgeon |
| Current Operations | Over 375 locations in 30 states |
| Menu Highlights | Cheeseburger sliders, seasoned waffle fries, hand-spun milkshakes |
| Notable Investors | Drew Brees, 10 Point Capital |
FAQ
What is Smalls Sliders?
Smalls Sliders is a fast-casual restaurant brand specializing in cheeseburger sliders, seasoned fries, and milkshakes since 2019.
Where will the new locations open?
The new locations will be in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Clarksville and Henderson in Tennessee.
When are the new restaurants expected to open?
The new Smalls Sliders locations are scheduled to open in 2026.
Who is leading the new franchise expansion?
Dr. Matthew Robinson, a general surgeon, is leading the franchise expansion in Kentucky and Tennessee.
How many locations does Smalls Sliders currently operate?
Smalls Sliders currently operates over 375 locations across 30 states.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Clarksville Now
- Wikipedia: Franchising
- Franchising.com
- Google Search: Smalls Sliders
- QSR Web
- Google Scholar: Smalls Sliders
- Killeen Daily Herald
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fast-food restaurants
- QSR Magazine
- Google News: Smalls Sliders expansion
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
