Experienced Operators Commit to Long-Term Development Across U.S. and Canada
- Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers delivered record franchise growth in 2025.
- The brand opened 51 restaurants and signed multi-unit deals for future locations.
- Strong franchisee support continues to attract experienced operators.
A commitment to ensuring quality and supporting franchisees helped drive record growth for Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers throughout 2025, with 51 new restaurants opened and 22 multi-unit development agreements signed to develop 118 new restaurants.
“The sustained deal volume we’ve seen this year demonstrates the confidence our franchisees have in the long-term strength of our brand and franchise system,” says Andrew Thengvall, the company’s Chief Development Officer. “Freddy’s continues to attract highly experienced franchise owners who share our passion for operational excellence and delivering consistent performance across diverse markets.”
Franchise Development Momentum
During the first few months of the year, Freddy’s signed six multiunit franchise agreements representing 44 new restaurants in development. By the midpoint of 2025, the fast-casual restaurant brand had reached a milestone with more than 100 new locations in development. Freddy’s continued to build on that growth during the summer, with a 14-unit deal from an existing ownership group along with another nine franchise deals closed, representing 49 additional restaurants in development.
In addition, 51 new Freddy’s restaurants opened across the U.S. and Canada during 2025. Freddy’s currently has 580 locations in operation, with another seven restaurants scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2026.
To promote continued growth and better equip franchise owners for success, Freddy’s Training & Innovation Center serves as a home for on-site product testing and instruction for franchisees and managers. Since its opening in 2024 in Wichita, Kan., the center has trained 160 managers and franchise owners in operational systems and processes, helping to maintain the brand’s standards for excellence and exceptional service. Staff at the center have also tested and refined new menu items and developed technological initiatives designed to improve efficiency at its restaurants.
Menu Innovation Meets Changing Preferences
Known for its cooked-to-order steakburgers and shoestring fries and freshly churned frozen custard treats, Freddy’s has adapted its menu to meet consumers’ evolving tastes without sacrificing the quality that the brand relies on. Lettuce-wrapped items appeal to customers who are seeking low-carb food, and black-bean veggie burgers provide a plant-based choice.
Beyond its comprehensive training, Freddy’s helps new franchisees select sites, plan the restaurant layout and order fixtures and equipment. The company also assists franchise owners with advertising and marketing strategies, including a strong social media presence, both before and after a location opens. And franchise business coaches and a collaborative network of franchisees also provide support. Freddy’s is seeking to partner with new franchisees who are community focused and dedicated to excellence and are looking to grow.
The company was founded in Wichita in 2002 by brothers Bill and Randy Simon along with their friend and business partner Scott Redler. They envisioned a restaurant reminiscent of the ones they remembered from their childhood, with burgers like Freddy Simon (Bill and Randy’s father) used to make. So they named the restaurant after Freddy, who had instilled his values of hard work and community service in his sons. Together with their partner, the Simons built a brand focused on quality and hospitality and soon began franchising, opening their first of many franchises in 2004.
Industry Recognition
The company’s robust performance during 2025 was recognized by the Franchise Times Top 400 list, as Freddy’s climbed three spots to No. 79. The annual ranking evaluates U.S.-based franchise systems by their global sales. Other lists also noted Freddy’s achievements for the year, and the company was named No. 23 on Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers + Shakers, No. 85 on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 and No. 36 on Yelp’s 50 Most Loved Brands.
Looking forward, the market size for hamburger restaurants in the United States, which was estimated at $173 billion for 2025, according to IBIS World, is projected to continue growing for the next five years.
Freddy’s is aiming to play a role in that growth, says Chris Dull, President and CEO of Freddy’s. “Last year’s growth underscores the collective strength of our franchise system and the momentum propelling us into 2026 and beyond,” he says. “That success is a testament to the dedication of our franchise owners and team members who consistently strive for operational excellence, delivering on our promise of an exceptional Freddy’s experience for guests and communities.”
Visit the Freddy’s franchise website for more information.
