Freddy’s Scales Up With 60 New Locations Planned for 2026

The brand’s growth strategy centers on diversifying beyond its traditional standalone buildings. By introducing endcap and in-line prototypes, the company is lowering the barrier to entry for prospective owners. An in-line restaurant requires an investment starting at $854,834, significantly less than the $1,586,334 typically required for a standalone location. This flexibility is designed to help the chain capture prime real estate in dense trade areas across the Northeast, the Rust Belt, and Northern California.

Andrew Thengvall, the company's Chief Development Officer, attributes the momentum to a franchise system rooted in operator longevity. Approximately one-third of existing partners are currently expanding into additional territories, signaling confidence in the brand's unit economics. As the company eyes further development in Canada and Mexico, it remains focused on its core menu of steakburgers and frozen custard, aiming to replicate the success that earned it a spot among the top 100 fast-casual concepts in recent industry rankings.