Freddy’s new prototype has no indoor dining

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers will unveil a new format as its franchise development momentum continues. 

The fast-casual brand, which is on track to open more than 45 restaurants this year, has broken ground on a new prototype designed for convenience.  Located in Salina, Kansas, the new location will feature a double drive-thru lane, parking stalls for curbside pickup, a walk-up ordering window, and patio seating. It will be Freddy’s first restaurant without an indoor dining room. 

The features of the new design were determined following a brand study on drive-thru operations and customer habits. Construction of the new restaurant 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,” said Chris Dull, CEO, Freddy’s, which has more than 400 locations. “Guests who are mobile-minded and benefit from the ease and convenience of this prototype's features. This new restaurant design option will fit seamlessly with our existing drive-thru and mobile ordering capabilities.”

Freddy’s new openings in 2021 so far include sites in key markets such as Florida, Tennessee, and Georgia. The brand continued its non-traditional expansion with the opening of a location in the Wichita Wind Surge Minor League Baseball stadium.

Upcoming openings taking place in the coming months include El Paso, Texas; Durango, Colorado; Florence, South Carolina; Streetsboro, Ohio; Lexington, Kentucky; Newton and Kansas. In addition, Freddy’s open its first location in New Jersey, expanding its footprint to 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," said 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."

Founded in 2002, Freddy’s was acquired by private equity firm Thompson Street Capital Partners in March 2021.