franchise development

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, …

Franklin, Tenn. — CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc. has opened the 400th Carl’s Jr. restaurant in Mexico. The new location is in the port city of Tampico, on the Gulf of Mexico. “Mexico continues to be one of our top performing markets. Carl’s Jr. Mexico’s success is due to the best-in-class experience we offer our guests throughout the country every day,” says Julio Sanchez, general manager-Americas at CKE Restaurants. “With the opening of our 400th restaurant, we continue to deliver beautiful, modern restaurants and, of course, the best burgers in the …

Los Angeles — Dave’s Hot Chicken, a rapidly growing Nashville-style hot chicken concept, has opened its 250th restaurant — and its first in the United Kingdom. Located at 40 Shaftesbury Ave., in the heart of London, the two-floor, 90-seat venue features an extraordinary street art display, paying homage to the humble East Hollywood parking lot where Dave’s began back in 2017, and takes inspiration from the world-famous Piccadilly Circus nearby. Dave’s Hot Chicken has opened nearly 80 new stores this year, with 2025 planned to be a year of equal …