California — Burger lovers across California could soon have many more places to grab a steakburger and frozen custard as Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers announced an ambitious expansion plan that includes 60 new restaurants, with the Golden State expected to be one of its biggest areas of growth.
The Wichita, Kansas-based fast-casual chain is accelerating its nationwide expansion strategy by targeting several new markets, while placing a significant emphasis on increasing its presence throughout California.
The move comes as several major restaurant brands continue investing heavily in the state despite ongoing economic challenges.
Freddy’s Plans Major Push Across California
Freddy’s said the expansion will focus heavily on Northern California, while continuing to strengthen its presence in Southern California, where the brand already operates several restaurants.
Current California locations include Bakersfield, Barstow, Fontana, Glendora, Norco, San Marcos and Victorville.
Although the company has not announced exactly where the new restaurants will be built, the expansion is expected to make the chain much more accessible for customers across the state, including communities in the Central Valley and Bay Area.
For many California diners, the new locations could significantly reduce travel time to the nearest Freddy’s restaurant.
Expansion Is Part of Long-Term Growth Strategy
The planned openings are part of Freddy’s broader multi-year development strategy, which aims to bring the brand into more markets across the United States.
In addition to opening new restaurants, the company is encouraging entrepreneurs to join its franchise system as it continues expanding.
Andrew Thengvall, Freddy’s Chief Development Officer, said the company remains focused on supporting franchise owners while creating long-term growth opportunities.
“A strong franchise system is built on operators who see long-term opportunity within the brand.”
“As Freddy’s continues to grow, we remain focused on supporting our franchisees, through new restaurant prototypes, greater real estate flexibility, and development strategies that help position the brand for sustainable growth.”
Competition Heats Up in California’s Fast-Food Market
Freddy’s expansion comes as other well-known restaurant chains continue investing in California.
Brands such as Raising Cane’s and In-N-Out Burger have also expanded their presence in recent years, betting that California’s large population and strong demand for quick-service dining will continue driving growth.
Despite economic pressures facing many businesses, major restaurant companies continue viewing California as one of the country’s most attractive markets for expansion.
What Customers Can Expect
Founded in Wichita, Kansas, in 2002, Freddy’s has grown into a national chain with more than 580 locations across the United States.
The restaurant has earned a loyal customer base thanks to its made-to-order steakburgers, fresh never-frozen beef, crispy shoestring fries, small-batch frozen custard and classic American comfort food.
Popular menu favorites include the Freddy’s Original Double, Freddy’s Original Patty Melt, Grilled Cheese Steakburger, All-Beef Hot Dog, and the Signature Turtle Frozen Custard Sundae.
While California customers will have to wait a little longer for additional locations, the company’s latest announcement signals that many more Freddy’s restaurants could soon become part of the state’s growing fast-food landscape.
Are you excited to see Freddy’s expand across California? Which city do you think should get one of the new restaurants first? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
