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, Mont. The restaurant will be the state’s first Mellow Mushroom.
The expansion reflects Mellow Mushroom’s strategy of growing in markets where population trends, demographics and operating conditions align with the brand’s long term goals. Kentucky, where the company already signed a three-unit development agreement earlier this year, remains another major growth priority.
Mellow Mushroom has spent more than 50 years building a restaurant experience centered on handcrafted, stone-baked pizzas, distinctive restaurant designs and neighborhood gathering spaces that are locally owned and reflect the community. The brand has also recently introduced a “Fast Fine” restaurant prototype, a more compact fast-casual option that makes it easier to find real estate while still delivering that classic Mellow Mushroom feel.
Looking ahead, the company expects its momentum to continue through the remainder of the year, expecting to sign another five to 10 deals before the end of the year.
Founded in Atlanta in 1974, Mellow Mushroom has been serving up fresh, stone-baked pizzas in an eclectic, art-filled environment for over 50 years. Each location is locally owned and operated, with unique restaurant designs that reflect the creativity and character of the communities it serves. For more information, visit https://www.mellowmushroom.com/franchising.
SOURCE: Mellow Mushroom