Papa John’s
U.S. & WORLDWIDE
Papa John’s is focused on significant U.S. expansion, building on its 5,825 restaurants across 48 states. The brand has been engaging existing franchise partners and seeking new operators to penetrate underserved markets and boost growth opportunities throughout 2024 and beyond.
Tariq Halal
U.K. & EXPANDING
Operating 30 locations in the U.K., Tariq Halal plans to reach 100 within five years while expanding into Europe, the U.S., and U.A.E. As the world’s only Halal meat butcher franchise, it sells premium meats to a global customer base, driving growth through innovative concepts.
Dine Brands International
U.S., MEXICO, CANADA, U.A.E., KUWAIT, SAUDIA ARABIA, PERU, HONDURAS
Dine Brands International, an affiliate of Dine Brands Global, Inc. – the parent company of Applebee’s, IHOP, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop – is actively expanding its dual-branded restaurant concept (Applebee’s & IHOP) into new international markets.
This innovative approach seamlessly integrates both brands under one roof, providing guests with distinct dining areas for each brand, enhancing operational efficiencies for franchisees and allowing guests to enjoy IHOP’s renowned breakfast alongside Applebee’s diverse menu of casual dining favorites.
One of the key advantages of the dual-branded concept is the complimentary brands offering distinctive and non-competing dishes. Each brand leverages its unique menu offerings with minimal overlap, ensuring a diverse and appealing selection for guests.
The dual-branded concept also excels in capturing all dayparts. IHOP shines in the morning, while Applebee’s thrives in the afternoons and evenings. This strategy maximizes sales per hour during AM and PM dayparts.
By optimizing restaurants for success, this concept combines two brands under one roof, which streamlines operations. This includes using the same back-of house kitchen with incremental equipment as needed, leveraging and cross-training staff, sharing management and fixed costs, and maximizing productivity by hour and headcount.
Furthermore, the concept enhances economics and returns by capitalizing on each brand’s unique strengths and dayparts to deliver a great all-day menu. This leads to improved unit economics and favorable returns.
Recently, the team achieved a significant milestone in their global expansion by opening a dual-branded Applebee’s and IHOP restaurant in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. This new establishment brings beloved American dining to a new market and showcases the company’s commitment to growth and innovation.
This strategic move is expected to strengthen the brand’s presence in Central America and provide a unique dining destination for both locals and tourists alike. With this opening in Honduras, the total number of international dual-branded locations has reached 13 across seven markets: Mexico, Canada, UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Peru, and Honduras. To fuel growth over the next 5-10 years, Dine Brands has so far secured agreements to develop at least 21 new locations, 13 of which will be dual-branded, across various international markets. These commitments include conversions of existing single branded restaurants as well as new establishments in traditional and non-traditional channels, such as airports and travel centers.
In the coming months, Dine Brands International plans to open both single and dual-branded locations in Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and more. Dine Brands is actively seeking qualified Master Franchisees and Developers in select markets across Asia, Europe, and Brazil, as well as territories in Mexico and Canada.
To find out more about the franchising opportunities currently available, please click here for more information.
12th Street Burgers
U.K. & EXPANDING
12th St Burgers, developed by an experienced multi-brand franchisee, is looking at a bright future. With a plan to open more than 50 U.K. stores by 2035 and keen interest from a Bahrain corporate for a master licence, the authentic ‘Great American Food’ franchise offers a marketable model to investors.
Amigo’s Burgers and Shakes
U.K. & EXPANDING
Already expanding rapidly across the the U.K., Amigo’s Burgers and Shakes was bound to attract international interest. The franchisor is currently in talks with investors in North America, Asia and Africa with a view to take on master franchises across these regions.
Cilantro Taco Grill
MEXICO, THE U.K. + IRELAND, CANADA, GERMANY, U.A.E., SAUDI ARABIA, KUWAIT
Why settle for anything less than the real thing? Cilantro Taco Grill is flipping the script on fast-casual by bringing authentic, taqueria-style Mexican food to the masses.
The easy-to-scale model, proven by 17 corporate locations in Chicago and 100+ signed units across the U.S., is proof that the future of Mexican food is real Mexican food.
Founded by a Mexican-immigrant family and partnered with Pitbull, Cilantro is not just serving food – it’s transforming the industry. Now, the brand is looking for visionary partners to join them in shaping the future of fast-casual.
“By serving real Mexican food, we’re boldly embracing our roots to propel growth like never seen before.”
Temoc Morfin, CEO of Cilantro Taco Grill
Noodle Box
AUSTRALIA & U.S.
Part of the successful Concept Eight family of brands, there are currently over 90 Noodle Box restaurants in Australia and the South East Asian-inspired hot wok brand is about to open its fourth cloud kitchen in America, with ambition to grow across the U.S. and other international markets.
Plan Burrito
U.K. & EXPANDING
Plan Burrito, founded in 2022, is rapidly expanding with 20 stores and a new partnership with Catesby for multi-unit growth. Aiming to be the U.K.’s favorite Tex Mex street food brand, it plans for 500 locations domestically over the next five years, while also pursuing international opportunities.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
U.S. & EXPANDING
The largest U.S. smoothie concept operates over 1,450 cafes across 44 states. In 2023, it marked 14% unit growth, driven largely by existing franchisees. The brand is opening triple-digit cafes annually and signing 100-200+ agreements per year.
Wienerschnitzel
U.S. & SOUTH AMERICA
Wienerschnitzel has two multi-unit deals in Chile and Ecuador, each bringing 15 new units. Doug Koob now leads the brand’s Global Development Team, focusing on growth, particularly in South America.
Angry Crab Shack
U.S. & U.K.
Angry Crab Shack has expanded to 23 U.S. locations, with recent openings in Kennesaw, GA, and Prescott, AZ. Following its first opening in the U.K., the brand has a second U.K. location opening in October and a third scheduled for early 2025 under its Master Franchise Agreement.
Heavenly Desserts
U.K., CANADA, PAKISTAN, INDIA & GERMANY
Heavenly Desserts has expanded from 5 locations in 2016 to 56 today. The brand has partner agreements for locations in Canada, Pakistan, India, and Germany, aiming for 100 global sites by 2025 and expansion into the U.S. and the Middle East.
Chicken Cottage
U.K. & AFRICA
With its recent top tier transformation, this established brand is seeking experienced investors and master franchisees for expansion in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, having recently signed a deal with a Private Equity group in Africa with a focus on three key territories.
Big Chicken
U.S., U.K. & SOUTH AMERICA
Big Chicken has exceeded industry expectations since its 2018 launch, with over 350 locations in development. Backed by Shaquille O’Neal, Authentic Brands Group, and JRS Hospitality, the franchise opened 18 locations in 2023, expanding into the U.K. and South America, with global expansion ambitions.
Bunsik
U.K & EXPANDING
Bunsik, a fast-growing QSR, controls its own manufacturing and supply chain to support rapid franchise growth. With low entry costs and quick ROI, the brand aims to open 20 stores by 2025, 80 within five years, and over 200 across the U.K. and Europe within 10 years.
Famous Toastery
U.S. & EXPANDING
Franchising since 2013, Famous Toastery has grown to 24 locations across three U.S. states. In the past year, the brand signed agreements to add 11 new restaurants, aiming to expand its franchise network further. Famous Toastery targets 200 locations nationwide by 2030.
Fat Phill’s
NETHERLANDS & U.K.
Fat Phill’s is the fastest growing food franchise in the Netherlands, operating 17 locations with nine more planned for 2024, including its first London store. The U.S.-inspired QSR aims to open 100 U.K. sites over the next decade, with additional expansion targeting mainland Europe and the Middle East.
Wetzel’s Pretzels
U.S. & CANADA
Wetzel’s Pretzels has seen significant expansion over the past year, opening its first store in Canada and launching the ‘Twisted by Wetzel’s’ streetside concept in the U.S. With plans for its 400th location and a focus on growth in Canada and Latin America, the brand is well on course to solidify its global presence.
On the Border Mexican Grill
U.S., SOUTH KOREA & VIETNAM
With more than 130 locations, the brand is growing its global footprint in South Korea and Vietnam with master franchise partner JRW, while also focused on finding partners in India, Australia and Southeast Asia.
Fish Delish
EUROPE & U.S.
Fish Delish opened its first location in 2020 to positive feedback, leading to franchise sales starting in 2022. In just two years the brand has opened 14 locations in Croatia and one in the state of New Jersey with plans to expand in Europe and the U.S. with a focus on franchisee success and satisfaction.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers
U.S. & CANADA
Freddy’s has steadily grown since its 2002 founding, now boasting over 530 locations in 36 states. In 2023, it opened a record 62 restaurants and plans to add 50 more by the end of 2024. The brand aims for over 1,000 locations by 2035.
Gimme Gelato
GERMANY & EUROPE
Founded in 2018, Gimme Gelato has quickly become a leader in Berlin’s artisanal ice cream scene. Known for innovative practices and sustainability, it operates a flagship café and over 20 high-tech mobile units. The brand is now poised to expand throughout Germany and Europe.
HTeaO
U.S. & EXPANDING
HTeaO quickly gained momentum after launching its franchise prototype in 2018, securing 29 agreements within a month. It now operates 118 locations and aims to expand to 300 locations nationwide by 2026, capitalizing on the thriving tea and coffee market.
Graze Craze
U.S., AUSTRALIA, FRANCE & CANADA
Graze Craze, the leading charcuterie franchise, has grown to over 80 locations since franchising began in 2021. Present in the U.S., Australia, France, and Canada, the brand is well on track to surpass 100 locations by the end of 2024, and become a global catering sensation.
Eat Salad
EUROPE & EXPANDING
The youngest brand on the list, Eat Salad® is already primed for international growth having launched its first international location in Barcelona in 2024. The goal is to establish 300 locations worldwide by 2030, building on over 65 in France, and catering to the demand for healthy, customizable dining.
Dave’s Hot Chicken
U.S. & CANADA
Last year Dave’s Hot Chicken added 73 locations to its portfolio, reaching a total of 174, and secured 109 new franchise commitments totaling 862 units. Looking ahead, the brand plans to expand internationally with six locations in Canada and additional openings in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar.
Uncle Tetsu’s Japanese Cheesecake
CANADA, U.S., TAIWAN, JAPAN, INDONESIA
Founded by Tetsushi Mizokami in 1990, Uncle Tetsu’s Japanese Cheesecake introduced the art of Japanese baking to the world. Born and raised in Hakata, Fukuoka, Mizokami learned the traditional craft in his parents’ cake shop, fueling his lifelong passion for quality desserts and ultimately inspiring his creation of the world’s first Japanese cheesecake concept. Uncle Tetsu has since sparked a global trend for unique and delectable Japanese desserts.
Tetsushi’s entrepreneurial journey blossomed in the 70s and 80s, opening various ventures, including Hana Jam, the shop where he first introduced the now-iconic Japanese cheesecake – a delicately soft, airy dessert that quickly became beloved by locals. This cheesecake stood out for its simplicity and melt-in your-mouth texture, capturing the essence of Japanese flavors.
By 1990, Mizokami focused entirely on the cheesecake, launching Uncle Tetsu’s Freshly Baked Studio, where customers could witness each cake’s creation, emphasizing quality, freshness, and the joy of a unique dessert experience.
Now, Uncle Tetsu’s Japanese Cheesecake is a phenomenon with a clear mission: to make Japanese cheesecake as universally loved as sushi or ramen. Expanding steadily, Uncle Tetsu aims to open 60 units by 2025 and reach 100 by 2030, bringing the heart of Japan’s Tessy’s Village to a global audience.
As the brand expands across Canada, the USA, Taiwan, Japan, and Indonesia, plans are underway for Europe, the U.K., and South America. Each market offers a unique opportunity for Uncle Tetsu to connect with diverse cultures by blending Japanese authenticity with local flavors. For instance, Brazil’s large Japanese population and appreciation for cultural flavors create a perfect entry point in South America, where Uncle Tetsu can introduce Japanese-inspired treats with local twists like tropical fruits or dulce de leche.
Uncle Tetsu’s unique Fresh-Made Mini Factory model differentiates it from other dessert franchises. Each cheesecake is prepared on-site, hand-whisked, and baked daily for peak freshness, ensuring the same authentic, high-quality experience across all locations. With new items like cheese tarts and honey madeleines, Uncle Tetsu combines innovation with tradition, expanding the appeal of Japanese desserts worldwide.
To maintain consistency, Uncle Tetsu invests in hands-on training, sending specialized trainers to each new location to adapt recipes with locally sourced ingredients, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to freshness and community support. This careful balance of technology, customized ovens, and staff training upholds quality and offers franchisees a unique value proposition.
Uncle Tetsu is actively seeking franchise partners who align with Mizokami’s dedication to craftsmanship, quality, and cultural respect. Prospective franchisees receive comprehensive support, from in-depth training and marketing assistance to operational support.
With a loyal and culturally diverse customer base – from Gen Z to Baby Boomers – Uncle Tetsu offers franchisees a compelling, globally resonant brand that brings the taste of Japan to every corner of the world.
Pomme Freunde
GERMANY & EUROPE
Founded in 2009 in Munich, Pommes Freunde has quickly expanded from a pilot store to over 50 locations today. Growing sustainably, the brand opened 37 stores by 2021 and entered Austria in 2022. With monthly openings and its first airport location next year, Pommes Freunde continues to thrive.
Paris Baguette
NORTH & SOUTH AMERICA
With over 170 locations in North America alone, and 70 more in development, the neighborhood bakery café is expanding into new markets such as Utah and Minnesota, opening stores in Guam and Puerto Rico, and searching for a Master Partner to jump-start development in Mexico.
Port of Subs
U.S. & EXPANDING
Port of Subs boasts nearly 70 locations across nine states, with 230 units under development in key markets like Minnesota, Oregon, Arizona, Florida, and Texas. Following its acquisition by Area 15 Ventures, the brand aims for aggressive nationwide expansion, targeting major growth.
Rita’s Italian Ice
U.S. & EXPANDING
Rita’s Italian Ice operates 575 locations across the United States. In 2023, the brand opened 40 new outlets and plans to open 45 in 2024. With ambitious expansion strategies, Rita’s aims to tap into new markets nationwide, continuing to grow its presence in the frozen dessert industry.
Slim Chickens
U.S. & WORLDWIDE
Slim Chickens has experienced 70% growth since 2022, with over 50 openings in 2023 and 80 signed deals across 10 new territories, bringing its total to over 250 locations. This year, the brand has focused on domestic growth, as well as Canada, Germany, the U.K., Turkey, the E.U. and the G.C.C. among others.
Salata Salad Kitchen
U.S. & EXPANDING
Salata Salad Kitchen, founded in 2005 by Berge Simonian in Houston, offers customizable salads and wraps with over 50 fresh toppings. Since franchising in 2006, it has expanded to over 95 locations across Texas, Georgia, Southern California, Louisiana, and North Carolina, with plans for further growth into new markets.
Salad Box
EUROPE
Salad Box began in 2011 with a vision for affordable healthy food. Since opening its first restaurant in Romania in 2012, it has expanded to over 50 locations across 8 countries. Looking ahead, Salad Box plans to enter new European markets, promoting its healthy, fast meal concept across the continent.
I Am Döner
U.K., DUBAI, CANADA
I Am Döner is a premium kebab franchise prioritizing fresh ingredients and sustainability through higher welfare sourcing and plastic-free packaging. With locations in the U.K. and Dubai, plus an upcoming launch in Canada, it aims to become a global leader in the kebab market.
Kaspa’s Desserts
U.K., MOROCCO, PAKISTAN
Kaspa’s Desserts has expanded to 100 locations in the U.K. with further growth in Morocco and Pakistan and upcoming launches in Turkey, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. The brand aims for sustainable international expansion through responsible franchising, focusing on high ROI.
La Donutaria
EUROPE, U.K., MIDDLE EAST
La Donuteria has expanded to over 70 locations worldwide, including the Middle East and the U.K. Over the next 5-10 years, the brand aims to double its locations while enhancing sustainability and innovating product offerings, solidifying its position as a global leader in the gourmet donut industry.
Marco’s Pizza
U.S. & MEXICO
Marco’s Pizza has expanded from one location to over 1,200 stores in the U.S. and beyond. With a commitment to international growth, including a 50-unit master franchise agreement in Mexico, the brand aims to double its footprint in the next decade, solidifying its position as a global leader.
Naughty Pizza
U.K. & MIDDLE EAST
Naughty Pizza is a U.K. brand known for its live kitchen experience. Now with a flagship store in Dubai and a new model at Market Island, the largest food hall in the Middle East, the brand aims to expand aggressively, targeting 20-30 international franchise locations within the next 3-5 years.
Smalls Sliders
U.S. & EXPANDING
Smalls Sliders has gained attention from many multi-unit operators since reopening franchising over a year ago. With 300 Cans open or in development across 24 states, 6 states sold out for future expansion, and a robust pipeline in place, the brand is poised for significant multi-unit growth nationwide.
SOJUBAR
NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM & EUROPE
Sojubar, a brand that celebrates authentic Korean cuisine, currently operates venues in the Netherlands and Belgium. It plans to expand across Europe and the U.K., ultimately aiming for global growth through franchising in vibrant urban areas.
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill
U.S. & CANADA
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill opened 21 locations in 2023 and targeted greater numbers in 2024. The brand plans to quadruple its U.S. footprint and expand into Australia, Ireland, South America, and the Middle East over the next decade.
Tony Roma’s
U.S & WORLDWIDE
With 86 locations worldwide, Tony Roma’s is poised for aggressive expansion over the next 5-10 years. The strategy targets key markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, focusing on high-demand cities to create attractive investment opportunities for potential franchisees.
Tucano Coffee
EUROPE & WORLDWIDE
Since 2013, Tucano Coffee has expanded to 51 locations across seven countries. With a vision for growth, the brand aims to double its footprint by 2028, targeting 100 coffee shops in 12 countries, further solidifying its presence in the global coffee market.
You Me Sushi
U.K. & IRELAND
You Me Sushi is expanding across the UK and Ireland, aiming to reach 35 sites by the end of 2024 and doubling its estate in the future. The brand offers multi-site developer opportunities and delivery only models, seeking operators with experience to fuel its growth.
Wings and Rings
U.S. & MEXICO
Currently operating 85 locations, Wings and Rings is celebrating four decades. Focusing on franchisee support, the QSR aims to enhance its national and international footprint by aggressively expanding, with new sites planned in Texas, Georgia, and Mexico.
Zocalo
SCANDINAVIA & U.K.
Inspired by the taquerias of the Mexican Mission District in San Francisco, Zócalo operates 27 restaurants across Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and the U.K. The award-winning brand offers a range of opportunities to area developers and master franchisees for entire to fuel its growth.
New York Fries
U.S., CANADA & THE MIDDLE EAST
With over 100 locations globally, New York Fries is re-establishing its presence in the U.S. after becoming a staple in Canada and the Middle East. Recently opened in New Jersey and New York, the brand plans to expand nationwide through non traditional venues.
Chuck E. Cheese
U.S., LATAM & MENA
Chuck E. Cheese is expanding its global franchise, adding Egypt and Kuwait in 2024, with Australia and more markets planned for 2025. With nearly 100 locations outside the U.S., the brand is growing beyond its core LATAM and MENA markets, targeting Asia and Europe for future expansion.
Subway
WORLDWIDE
The world’s largest single brand restaurant chain signed over 20 master franchise agreements in the last three years, leading to more than 10,000 future restaurant commitments. The chain plans to significantly expand in Europe and Latin America, doubling global locations by the end of 2025.
Wing Snob
U.S. & CANADA
Wing Snob® is rapidly expanding, growing from 24 to 54 locations across the U.S. and Canada, with plans to reach 100 by 2025. Targeting key markets in the Midwest and beyond, the brand is strategically positioning itself for continued growth, aiming to become a dominant player in the global wing industry.
