Innovative Cheeseburger Slider Brand Joins Forces with Experienced Operators to Grow Southeast Footprint
February 13, 2026 // Franchising.com // ARKANSAS AND MISSOURI – Smalls Sliders, the industry-disrupting cheeseburger slider brand, has signed a multi-unit development agreement to develop four new Cans in Northwest Arkansas and Missouri. Spearheaded by brothers Joe and Tim Rheem and business partner Johnny Hughes, the team is eager to strengthen the brand’s presence in two markets that are prime for growth.
Joe and Tim bring a strong track record as successful franchise operators for numerous notable QSR concepts, pairing hands-on ownership experience with a disciplined, growth-minded approach. Their partnership is further strengthened by Johnny’s deep roots in the foodservice industry, following a 31-year career at Tyson Foods Inc., where he held various leadership roles in sales, marketing, and operations. He most recently served as Senior Vice President of foodservice and previously held the role of SVP/GM of the McDonald’s business unit , one of the company’s largest and most strategic global partnerships. Johnny’s transition from leading at the highest levels of global foodservice to investing in franchising reflects both his continued passion for the restaurant industry and a shared emphasis among the group to grow alongside the brand…