About Our Fast-casual Franchise | Freddy's Franchise (2024)

Inside every Freddy’s, you’ll find the passion and energy that was envisioned by three well-established entrepreneurs. Brothers Bill and Randy Simon, alongside Scott Redler, wanted to bring a different kind of restaurant to Wichita – one that was reminiscent of the late 1940s and early 1950s and stood for something different than most fast-casual concepts.

They turned to their own childhood memories for inspiration. The brothers recalled the delicious steakburgers their dad made and how he was such an inspiration to them throughout their lives. Freddy was a Purple Heart recipient and World War II veteran, so it only made sense that Freddy’s values and patriotic service provide the foundation of the new endeavor.

So, they got to work, piecing together all the right ingredients – steakburgers, shoestring fries, and frozen custard – testing and tasting until each detail was perfect. In 2002, they opened the doors to the very first Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers. Originally intending this would be the only Freddy’s, the trio was surprised and humbled by the reception Freddy’s garnered.

Two short years later, the first franchise location opened, and before you knew it, it grew to more than 440 franchised locations and over 30 company-operated restaurants spanning more than 34 states nationwide. Sadly, even though expansions continued, the Freddy’s family lost Bill Simon to cancer, and in 2020, Freddy passed at the age of 95.

In 2021, Freddy’s was acquired by the private equity firm Thompson Street Capital Partners (TSCP). Many in Freddy’s original leadership partnered alongside, including Randy Simon, who continues to serve as Chairman of the Board.

Today, Freddy’s has over 500 locations in 36 states, including Canada. With Freddy’s strong foundation, it’s only the beginning for Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers.

The Freddy’s fast-casual franchise concept was built on a foundation that mirrored the values of its namesake: quality, genuine hospitality, cleanliness, and timeless traditions. The concept was a restaurant reminiscent of the late 1940s and early 1950s. Today, our restaurants from coast-to-coast serve a simple menu honoring the All-American meals Freddy made for his family.

The foundational conversations that started the Freddy’s brand continue to drive its success. The mantra of our founders is “The Freddy’s Way,” which is to do things the right way. It applies to every major decision from selecting franchise owners, expanding internationally, and choosing how to update the brand while keeping true to our roots. In our history, we have never made a decision to lessen the quality or portion of any of our craveable food.

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