franchise development

Meadville, Pa. — Since launching franchising in 2012, Voodoo Brewing Co. has experienced explosive growth, awarding almost 80 agreements, with 17 locations open and 25 brewpubs projected to open by the end of 2023. According to CEO Matteo Rachocki, Voodoo Brewing Co. has already sold out the Dallas market and has established itself in other major markets, including Pittsburgh; Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada; and Knoxville, Tenn. “We’re looking to bring Voodoo to communities across the U.S.,” Rachocki says. “At this point, we’re only going to award 50 more franchises. …

Irving, Texas — Fuzzy’s Taco Shop has entered into a 20-restaurant agreement with new franchisee Mark Justice, who will expand the brand’s footprint into Nevada, marking its first units in the state. Justice is eyeing Las Vegas for his first Fuzzy’s Taco Shop location, with expansion into other markets in Nevada over the next 7 years. In addition to Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Justice owns and operates IHOP restaurants in eight states. Notably, Justice is the first IHOP franchisee to enter into a franchise agreement with Fuzzy’s Taco Shop after its …

Atlanta — Tropical Smoothie Cafe continues to see positive growth through third quarter of 2023, opening 141 new cafes and signing 166 franchise agreements. The brand now has more than 1,335 open locations. In the third quarter alone, Tropical Smoothie Cafe franchisees opened 51 new cafes. In addition to new openings in the third quarter, the brand signed 77 new franchise agreements, further strengthening the development pipeline to fuel its future growth. “I’m extremely proud of what the brand has accomplished already this year thanks to the dedication and commitment …

Houston — Shipley Do-Nuts, one of the nation’s oldest and largest do-nut brands, has signed a development deal with Charlotte, N.C.-area franchisees John and Lillian Brijeski to open the brand’s first North Carolina locations beginning in late 2024. The family plans to open three locations in the Charlotte area, starting with the first in Concord, N.C. “After trying Shipley Do-Nuts for the first time in South Carolina, we agreed they were delicious and that we needed to bring the world’s greatest do-nuts to the residents of North Carolina,” says Lillian …

Wichita, Kan. — Fast-casual restaurant concept Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® has opened its 500th restaurant, located at 608 SW Wilshire Blvd, in Burleson, Texas. This milestone underscores Freddy’s accelerated growth since its inception in 2002.  “As we celebrate this milestone, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. Reaching 500 locations was made possible first and foremost through the commitment of our passionate franchise partners, which we believe are the best group of franchisees in the country. Over the years we have had thousands of devoted …

Elkhart, Ind. — Scooter’s Coffee®, best known for its fast drive-thru and specialty coffee, is opening its 700th unit, located at 616 W. Bristol Street, Elkhart, Ind. The new location is part of the company’s new strategic growth phase in the Midwest and nationwide. “Opening our 700th location and celebrating this milestone with the great community in Elkhart is really exciting for Scooter’s Coffee,” says Joe Thornton, president of Scooter’s Coffee. “We look forward to sharing our amazing brand and love for all things coffee to new customers.” The drive-thru …