Wichita, Kan. — Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers experienced significant development success in 2020, opening 30 new restaurants in key markets throughout the U.S., including its milestone 400th location. Despite a challenging industry landscape, Freddy’s maintained strong systemwide sales throughout the pandemic and continued to grow, reporting AUV growth of 6.5%. The brand also signed with six new development groups that committed to over 60 development options; it also signed 11 new development agreements with existing Freddy’s franchisees who committed to additional territory and over 70 new restaurant options.
“Our ability to continue growing and thriving despite the toughest of circumstances is a testament to the viability of the Freddy’s franchise model,” says Randy Simon, president and CEO of Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. “We are thrilled to be heading into 2021 with a strong growth pipeline that positions us for further success.”
Throughout 2020, Freddy’s investments in innovation and technology both before and during the pandemic allowed the brand to evolve from an operational standpoint and adapt to the new demands of a post-COVID reality. These innovations included the expedited rollout of a mobile ordering platform which better equipped franchisees and restaurant team members to facilitate curbside delivery and contactless ordering. The brand saw widespread adoption and use of the app and loyalty program where available, as it played a vital role in facilitating safe and contactless ordering and payment. Curbside delivery was made available in select markets and is continuing to roll out at more restaurants across the system. The company’s investments resulted in sustainable, strong sales performance systemwide, with year-over-year sales growth coming in at a 21.2% increase.
“Giving our team members and guests a safe, efficient and convenient experience was more important in 2020 than ever, and we embraced technology as a way to maintain the connection we’ve built with our loyal guests and refine a process that enabled us to continue serving the Freddy’s community,” says Scott Redler, co-founder and COO.
With a dozen restaurants slated to open in the first quarter of the year, including locations in Tennessee, Georgia and Texas, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® plans to open more than 50 restaurants nationwide throughout the end of 2021.
Co-founded in 2002 by Scott Redler and Bill, Randy and Freddy Simon, Freddy’s opened its first location in Wichita, Kan. Today, Freddy’s has grown to more than 400 locations that serve 32 states across the nation from California to Pennsylvania, Virginia, down the East Coast states to Florida.
To read Retail & Restaurant Facility Business’ July 2019 cover story on Freddy’s click here.
SOURCE: Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers