Smashburger is a relatively newcomer in the burger industry. It was established in 2007 by Tom Ryan together with his friends Dave Prokupek and Scott Crane.

The company name, Smashburger originated from the process they use in cooking their burgers that is smashing a ball of meat on the grill. Besides burgers, they also offer other products like french fries, hot dogs, salads, Häagen-Dazs shakes, and soft drinks.

This year the company is aiming for a major expansion after it had received in late 2009 a $15 million investment from Consumer Capital Partners. So far it has branches in 12 locations and they are planning to double it by the end of 2010.

The burger chain currently has branches in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nevada, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, California, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah.

One of the several new branches to be launched this year is Smashburger’s new branch in Folsom at the Raley’s Shopping Center. It’s scheduled opening is on June 2. There are local bands and a big party scheduled during the opening day.

So watch out for the nearest Smashburger opening in your location soon!