There is good news for former customers of Back Yard Burgers, which closed its Athens location doors in September 2007 — the restaurant is scheduled to reopen Tuesday, Sept. 1 under new management.

The “fast-casual” restaurant is located at 16211 Athens-Limestone Blvd., which is on the northwest side of the Interstate 65 and U.S. 72 interchange at exit 351. The restaurant’s flagship item is the Back Yard Burger sandwich, a grilled 1/3 pound Angus hamburger.

Bob Stanley, a 35-year veteran of the quick service food industry is re-opening the franchise under the Stanley Enterprises, L.L.C. banner at the same location that served the Athens area for a year and a half before suddenly ceasing operation in September 2007.

Stanley’s background includes time spent with Burger Chef Restaurants and the Burger King Corporation before joining Back Yard Burgers as a franchise field consultant. In a press release announcing the opening, Stanley said he “has been truly blessed to have the opportunity to use my experience once again as a franchisee.” He added, “Back Yard Burgers is an excellent concept with superior food choices made with high-quality ingredients.”

Based in Nashville, Tenn., Back Yard Burgers was founded in 1987 in Cleveland, Miss., and operates about 150 restaurants in 20 states.

Today, Back Yard Burgers is a privately held company owned by BBAC, LLC following a merger-buy-out in November 2007.