Wichita, Kansas-based fast-casual concept Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers has entered the nontraditional sector for the first time with the opening of four new locations across the Midwest. The chain plans to open more than 40 restaurants in 2019, including its first two international locations in Dubai, UAE.
Freddy’s celebrated the opening of its first nontraditional location in August at Wichita State University’s student center, which is owned and operated by Compass Group USA and Chartwells Higher Education. Two locations at Oklahoma State University, one in the football stadium and one in the basketball stadium, opened in August and December, respectively. Both locations are operated by Cowboy Custard LLC. A fourth unit, owned by MLY Investments LLC, opened in the Old Capitol Town Center in Iowa City, Iowa, in February. A fifth nontraditional location at Missouri State University’s student center is expected to open before the end of the year.
Per a release, the nontraditional locations are equipped with technology that streamlines the back-of-the-house processes.
Additionally, Freddy’s recently introduced a smaller restaurant prototype with an updated kitchen design that maintains volume capacity to allow new and existing franchisees ways to expand their portfolio with the brand.
Freddy’s has more than 300 restaurants across 31 states.