Franchising

Freddy’s adding 118 restaurants to US, Canada

Photo: Freddy's

January 20, 2026

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Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers closed 2025 with record-breaking growth, signing 22 multi-unit development agreements to add 118 restaurants across the U.S. and Canada.

The Wichita-based chain has over 580 locations in operation after opening 51 restaurants last year. The recent deals expand the brand's footprint into several key markets, including Nashville, North Carolina's coastal counties and a significant 15-unit expansion into Ohio.

"The sustained deal volume we've seen this year demonstrates the confidence our franchisees have in the long-term strength of our brand," Andrew Thengvall, Freddy's chief development officer, said in a company press release.

The 2025 expansion included several large-scale acquisitions and development plays:

A Texas-based group acquired 19 existing Ohio locations while committing to build 15 more in the state
A multi-brand franchise group signed a 12-unit deal for the Nashville area and acquired three existing restaurants there.
Existing owners committed to a 14-unit expansion across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

"Last year's growth underscores the collective strength of our franchise system and the momentum propelling us into 2026," Chris Dull, president and CEO of Freddy's, said in the release.

The company expects to maintain its pace in the new year, with seven restaurants already scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2026. Founded in 2002, Freddy's operates in 36 states.