Franchising

McAlister’s signs 10-unit deal for Minnesota

January 16, 2024

Focus Brands, the parent company of Auntie Anne's, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba, McAlister's Deli, Moe's Southwest Grill and Schlotzsky's, is bringing McAlister's to Minnesota via a 10-unit franchise agreement, alongside a tri-brand franchise agreement that will bring Auntie Anne's, Cinnabon and Jamba to Mankato.

Behind the signings are restaurateurs and husband-wife team, Steve and Dani Wegman. The duo owns multiple food concepts around the greater Mankato area including 507, Weggy's, Krusty's Donut Shop and The Wagon Wheel.

"After visiting another restaurant development group's McAlister's Deli location in Grimes, Iowa, I knew we had an immense opportunity to bring this concept to Minnesota," Steve Wegman said in a company press release. "The menu features something for everyone while the genuine hospitality fits well with the Minnesota culture we're accustomed to. This is a real gathering place for people to linger and enjoy food that's simple, yet elevated, using the finest ingredients."

The tri-brand Auntie Anne's, Cinnabon, and Jamba location is expected to debut in Mankato at 1600 Warren Street, across from the Minnesota State University campus, in early 2024.