franchise development

Lexington, Ky. — A&W Restaurants has launched its new restaurant prototype, a design that honors the brand’s iconic past while creating a relevant, differentiated experience for today’s guests. The updated design will serve as the foundation for future A&W restaurant development across the U.S., supporting the brand’s expansion into both new and existing markets. Inspired by A&W’s classic diner restaurants and its original roadside root beer stands, the modern heritage concept blends timeless Americana with contemporary architecture, enhanced guest comfort and a flexible footprint that can be adapted for a …

Houston — Shipley Donuts, which is celebrating 90 years in business this year, will make its Michigan debut in metro Detroit through a 15-unit franchise agreement. The agreement will bring Shipley Donuts to Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties across metro Detroit, with the first location targeted for late first quarter 2027. The agreement establishes plans to open three additional shops per year for the next 4 years, resulting in 15 new stores over a 5-year development period. This agreement marks a major milestone for Shipley Donuts as the brand celebrates …

Palmetto, Fla. — Two Inspire Brands favorites are joining forces for the first time. On Aug. 18, Buffalo Wild Wings GO and Jimmy John’s® will open the country’s first co-branded location at 5241 69th St. E in Palmetto, Fla., bringing hand-sauced wings and made-to-order subs together under one roof. The location is owned and operated by Quality Foods Restaurant Group, which operates three other Buffalo Wild Wings locations across Florida. “Bringing the first-ever Buffalo Wild Wings GO and Jimmy John’s together is something special, and we’re proud to do it …

Atlanta — Mellow Mushroom is entering the second half of 2026 with significant franchise development momentum after signing six franchise deals through the first half of the year, preparing to open new restaurants and expanding into new markets — including its first-ever location in Montana. During the first quarter, Mellow Mushroom signed four franchise agreements representing six restaurants across Kentucky, Montana, Arkansas and Georgia. Since then, the development pipeline has continued to expand. The brand is now preparing for four restaurant openings next year, including its highly anticipated debut in Bozeman, …