Fast-casual concept Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers’new prototype design is its first without a traditional dining room, but it does feature a double drive-thru and a walk-up ordering station.
Located in Salina, Kan., the new prototype offers an additional option for franchisees looking to capitalize on off-premises dining trends in the wake of the pandemic. Features of the new restaurant design were determined following a thorough brand study on drive-thru operations and guest habits. In addition to the double drive-thru lanes, the prototype features parking stalls for curbside pickup, a walk-up window and patio seating. Construction is expected to take place throughout the summer, with a potential opening date in late August.
“This prototype is the latest in a variety of available options and will cater to the growing number of our on-the-go guests who are mobile-minded and benefit from the ease and convenience of this prototype’s features,” says Chris Dull, CEO of Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. “This new restaurant design option will fit seamlessly with our existing drive-thru and mobile ordering capabilities.”
Among the new openings in 2021 so far, Freddy’s added locations in key markets such as Florida, Tennessee and Georgia. The brand continued its nontraditional expansion with the opening of a location in the Wichita Wind Surge Minor League Baseball stadium. Openings taking place in the coming months include El Paso, Texas; Durango, Colo.; Florence, S.C.; Streetsboro, Ohio; Lexington, Ky.; Newton, Kan. and a Linden, N.J., location that will mark the first Freddy’s in the Garden State. In July, the brand expects to have expanded its presence to a milestone 33 states.
“As our year-to-date growth demonstrates, we are well positioned to bring the Freddy’s experience to a number of new communities throughout the country,” says Dull. “This new prototype option is just another example of our constant efforts to continue The Freddy’s Way as we expand our offerings to franchise owners and look forward to the many new possibilities and benefits it offers our guests.”
The chain was on pace to open more than a dozen restaurants in the first half of the year and another 24 throughout the remainder of 2021, per a company release.