franchise development

Willis, Texas — Smalls Sliders, the industry-disrupting cheeseburger slider brand, is hosting an opening celebration on Jan. 4 for its first Texas location, situated in the suburban Houston town of Willis. “The excitement of bringing Smalls Sliders to Texas is something I’m proud to be part of, and there’s no better place to start than Willis,” says Preston Cunningham, local franchisee and operator. “This community has a unique charm and a welcoming spirit that makes it the perfect home for our first Texas Can. The city has grown tremendously over …

Atlanta — With a commitment to bringing the authentic taste of New Orleans to coffee enthusiasts nationwide, PJ’s Coffee is paving the way in the Atlanta metropolitan area with 12 locations in development to open in the next 7 years. “Our expansion into Atlanta represents a game-changing opportunity to share PJ’s unique flavors with a vibrant community that values Southern hospitality and exceptional coffee,” says Lory Schwartz, franchise development manager of PJ’s Coffee. “The city’s dynamic economy, strong coffee culture and affinity for innovation make it the perfect place for …

Roswell, Ga. — Voodoo Brewing Co. continues its rapid growth with the grand opening of its newest location in Roswell, Ga. This marks the 24th Voodoo Brewing Co. brewpub and the brand’s first entry into the Georgia market, opening Dec. 14 on Mansell Road in Roswell. “This is just the next step in our growth plans,” says Matteo Rachocki, CEO of Voodoo Brewing Co. “We are pumped to be expanding in Georgia.” As it continues to take hold of its place in the $115 billion U.S. beer market, Voodoo Brewing …

Atlanta — Handel’s Ice Cream, serving handmade ice cream since 1945, is marking a monumental milestone: its 150th location, which is opening on Dec. 12 at Buckhead Landing in Atlanta. “Handel’s continues to attract significant interest as one of the fastest growing concepts in the United States,” says Jennifer Schuler, chief executive officer for Handel’s Ice Cream. “With the Buckhead Landing opening, we mark our 150th scoop shop, laying the foundation for continued brand expansion in 2025.” Adds Schuler: “Building on the success of our recent Midtown Atlanta opening, the …

St. Petersburg, Fla. — Barberitos, a fast-casual burrito brand and member of the better-for-you dining platform WOWorks, is signing a 10-unit franchise agreement that will introduce the brand to multiple locations across Alabama. This expansion follows the recent unveiling of Barberitos’ reimagined look and enhanced menu. The first two Barberitos locations are currently under construction in Wetumpka and Prattville, Ala., with an anticipated opening by March. This rollout will mark the beginning of a broader expansion across the state, with plans for at least four additional stores in 2025. Additionally, …