Inside Freddy’s Franchise Growth and Multi-Unit Expansion

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is approaching a major milestone: 600 restaurants. But the brand still sees significant opportunity ahead.

Multi-unit agreements are adding restaurants to the development pipeline, existing franchisees are expanding their portfolios, and new restaurant formats are creating new real estate opportunties. And, there’s still meaningful whitespace across markets where Freddy’s sees room to grow.

Take a closer look at what’s behind Freddy’s franchise growth and where the brand is headed next.

Multi-Unit Development Continues to Fuel Freddy’s Franchise Growth

Freddy’s entered 2026 with an active development pipeline after signing 22 multi-unit development agreements representing 118 future restaurants across the U.S. and Canada in 2025. The brand also opened 51 restaurants during the year.

That pipeline is still growing. Freddy’s recently signed an eight-unit development agreement in Arkansas and Texas, adding new restaurants across both states and another multi-unit group to the system.

Our largest franchisee, JRI Hospitality, grew their portfolio to more than 130 Freddy’s restaurants across 18 states following the acquisition of 43 additional locations in 2026.

That multi-unit momentum comes as Freddy’s was recognized as Entrepreneur’s #46 on its 2026 Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners list, a ranking that considers multi-unit ownership alongside growth, support, brand strength and financial strength.

More Ways to Develop a Freddy’s Franchise

Freddy’s evolving development strategy is also creating more ways to bring restaurants to market.

We’re increasing our focus on in-line restaurants, end-cap locations with drive-thrus, and conversion opportunities. Standalone drive-thru restaurants and non-traditional locations remain part of the development mix, giving franchisees several ways to approach a market.

The increased emphasis on in-line and end-cap development can provide greater flexibility and a lower initial investment than traditional standalone development. Freddy’s expects approximately 60 restaurant openings in 2026 as it closes in on 600 locations, with these formats playing a larger role in its development strategy.

That flexibility opens up more real estate to consider, like existing buildings that can be converted to end caps with drive-thru access and in-line spaces in desirable trade areas. It also creates more options when evaluating the right restaurant franchise investment for a market.

Freddy’s Still Has Significant Whitespace Ahead

Even as Freddy’s approaches 600 restaurants, significant whitespace remains across priority markets.

The brand continues to target development across the Northeast, Midwest, Pacific Northwest, Northern California, Florida and other available markets. Some of those areas represent an opportunity to deepen Freddy’s presence, while others could introduce the brand to entirely new communities.

Oregon is one recent example. Freddy’s has been targeting significant expansion in the Portland area, with plans calling for at least 20 locations through franchise development.

For prospective franchisees, that whitespace creates opportunities to develop in markets where Freddy’s is actively seeking to expand its presence. Those open markets create room for multi-unit development in a competitive better burger franchise category. Freddy’s is growing its footprint while maintaining the cooked-to-order steakburgers, shoestring fries, freshly churned frozen custard and genuine hospitality that define the guest experience.

What’s Next for Freddy’s Franchise Growth?

Freddy’s franchise growth is being backed by multi-unit agreements, existing franchisees choosing to grow, more flexible real estate options and whitespace across the country.

Interested in opening a Freddy’s franchise? Learn more about the Freddy’s franchise opportunity and connect with the franchise development team to start the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Freddy’s Franchise Growth

Is Freddy’s a multi-unit restaurant franchise?

Yes. Freddy’s works with qualified single- and multi-unit franchisees, with multi-unit development playing a significant role in the brand’s growth. Freddy’s signed 22 multi-unit development agreements representing 118 future restaurants in 2025, and new agreements continue to expand the development pipeline.

Is Freddy’s a good investment for multi-unit owners?

Entrepreneur ranked Freddy’s No. 46 among its Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners for 2026. Its methodology looks at each brand’s Franchise 500 performance along with factors specific to multi-unit ownership, including the share of franchisees operating multiple locations, average units owned and multi-unit development incentives.

Where is Freddy’s currently expanding?

Freddy’s continues to pursue growth across markets including the Northeast, Midwest, Pacific Northwest, Northern California and Florida. Recent development also includes an eight-unit agreement for Arkansas and Texas and plans for significant expansion around Portland, Oregon.

What restaurant formats are available to Freddy’s franchisees?

Freddy’s development options include in-line restaurants, end-cap locations with drive-thrus, conversions, standalone drive-thru restaurants, and non-traditional locations. The brand is placing increased emphasis on in-line, end-cap and conversion opportunities as it continues to grow.

How do I open a Freddy’s franchise?

The first step is learning more about available markets, investment requirements and Freddy’s franchisee qualifications. From there, qualified candidates can connect with the franchise development team to discuss territory, real estate and the development process.