Freddy's plans 10 new South Carolina stores
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is planning to expand its store count in the Southeast.
The Kansas-based burger chain has reached a multi-unit development agreement to bring 10 new locations to Greenville and Spartanburg Counties in northern South Carolina. NFL offensive lineman Ben Powers, along with GVL Hospitality Group, are leading the expansion.
GVL Hospitality, which includes business partners and current Freddy’s franchisees Brett Rickert and Brian Stevens, has already begun the search for suitable sites in each county. The first property is expected to be purchased by the end of this year, with the initial restaurant slated to open in 2025.
The group aims to have all 10 locations operational by 2031. The planned expansion will help Freddy’s hit its goal of reaching 800 restaurants by 2026.
"Growing up, I always wanted to do something business-related and prove that I could make a name for myself on and off the football field," said Powers, a Wichita-native entering his sixth NFL season and second with the Denver Broncos. "I'm excited for this business venture with Freddy's; it's one of the best burgers you can get and it's a taste from home for me. I look forward to spreading the joy I have from my hometown with even more communities."
For the 10 new Freddy’s stores in the Palmetto State, Rickert, who resides in the Greenville-Spartanburg area, will serve as the operating partner, ensuring “seamless training and management,” while Stevens will help with the site selection and construction aspects.
[READ MORE: Freddy's opens training, food innovation facility in Kansas]
"Having Brett and Brian running things while I'm playing is reassuring," said Powers. "They're great mentors for me and I trust them wholeheartedly as we grow the Freddy's franchise in South Carolina."
Founded in 2002, Freddy’s is known for cooked-to-order steakburgers, shoestring fries, freshly churned frozen custard treats and more. The chain operates more than 530 restaurants in 36 states, with more than 130 locations in development for 2024 and 2025.
