Our Work

Proven on the job site. Not in a boardroom.

Recent builds, remodels and rollouts delivered for multi-unit franchisees, corporate brands and private equity groups. Plus what our team is writing, posting and hearing from the operators we serve.

01 / Recent Projects

Built, refreshed, reopened.

Each project is scoped, budgeted and tracked by one team, from site evaluation through final punch list.

Leadership track record

Before founding Next Stage, Managing Partner Christopher Hensley spent two decades in corporate development, including national new unit and remodel programs with the Denny's Construction and Development team.

Meet the team

02 / Insights

Notes from the field.

Practical guidance for operators planning their next unit, rollout or remodel.

Remodel & Refresh · 8 min read

Phasing, overnight work, and planning that keep revenue flowing while the remodel gets done.

Read the article

03 / On LinkedIn

Latest from the team.

Follow Next Stage on LinkedIn

We see ourselves as an extension of your team, navigating the hurdles of permitting and construction so you can focus on what you do best: running your business. Explore the Next Stage Difference at nextstagecorp.com

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04 / Reviews and Testimonials

What operators say.

LinkedIn Recommendation
Having worked with Chris at Denny's for more than 20 years, I saw him become a key leader in construction, facilities, and project management. Over those years Chris built hundreds of new restaurants and was the driving force behind well over a thousand remodels, managing the PMs, the budgets, and the timelines that made that volume possible. What set Chris apart wasn't just the output — when something complex landed on his desk, he brought order to messy projects and moved them without drama. He has now started his own development support company and I highly recommend Chris.
Steve Dunn Executive Vice President & Chief Global Development Officer
LinkedIn Recommendation
If you need someone who is experienced, professional, and consistently gets the job done, Christopher Hensley and Next Stage Development are the answers. Having worked with him closely for years as a franchisee, I have always been able to count on his absolute dependability and diligent work ethic. Whether it’s providing seamless remodel support, handling critical capital management, or stepping up with rapid emergency response services, Chris approaches every project with a sincere commitment to success. What truly sets Chris apart is his ability to bridge the gap between corporate expectations and field reality. He eliminates the friction between the boardroom and the job site so there are never any surprises. Combined with his natural charisma, he makes collaborating an absolute pleasure. I highly recommend him and Next Stage Development to any brand looking to scale or protect their assets.
Dawn Lafreeda Denny’s Restaurant Franchisee

Your next project belongs here.

Engage us for a single build or retain us as your fractional development leadership. Either way, the goal is predictable outcomes with fewer headaches.