Franchising

Go To Foods focused on co-branding, tech investments to fuel growth

Photo: GoTo

March 17, 2025

GoTo Foods, the parent company of brands including Auntie Anne's, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba, McAlister's Deli, Moe's Southwest Grill and Schlotzsky's, has plans for significant growth in 2025, building on a year of record franchise signings and digital innovation. It signed 1,177 franchise agreements in 2024, including 599 internationally, and reported its fourth consecutive year of increased net unit growth. CEO Jim Holthouser said in a company press release that its platform model, which optimizes operations across its seven brands, is driving the expansion.

Focused on co-branding

A key strategy is co-branding, with 353 co-brand deals signed in 2024, allowing franchisees to operate multiple brands in a single location, expanding beyond traditional mall formats.

The company also highlighted agreements with multi-unit operators, including plans for new Schlotzsky's locations in the Detroit area and Moe's Southwest Grill restaurants in Phoenix.

Franchise incentives

GoTo Foods, which is offering incentives for expansion in emerging markets like Michigan, Utah and Wisconsin, is also investing in digital technology, including the Qu POS system and mobile app features, which have led to increased average check sizes and loyalty program growth, according to the release.

GoTo Foods, formerly Focus Brands, operates over 6,900 locations in the U.S. and internationally.