Auntie Anne’s

Overview: Auntie Anne's is a leading American quick-service restaurant chain specializing in hand-rolled soft pretzels. Founded in 1988 by Anne Beiler in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, the company began as a single farmers market stand and rapidly expanded into a global franchise. The brand is now owned by Focus Brands, a subsidiary of Roark Capital Group, which acquired it in 2010. Auntie Anne's operates over 1,000 locations worldwide, with a strong presence in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and several international markets. The company is recognized for its signature pretzels, which are made fresh daily and served with a variety of dips and seasonings.

Products: Auntie Anne's menu centers around its hand-rolled soft pretzels, available in original, cinnamon sugar, and a range of specialty flavors. The chain also offers pretzel dogs, pretzel nuggets, and a selection of beverages, including lemonade and iced tea. Seasonal and limited-time offerings are frequently introduced to keep the menu dynamic. The company emphasizes quality ingredients and a consistent customer experience across all locations.

Market Position: Auntie Anne's is the largest hand-rolled soft pretzel franchise in the world. The brand is a staple in shopping malls, airports, and entertainment venues, where its high-visibility locations drive significant foot traffic. The company has a loyal customer base and is known for its strong brand recognition and consistent product quality. Auntie Anne's has received numerous industry awards and is frequently featured in consumer and business publications.

Growth: Auntie Anne's has experienced steady growth since its founding, with a focus on franchising as its primary expansion strategy. The company has opened hundreds of new locations in recent years, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. In 2023, Auntie Anne's UK announced plans to double its store count to 100 by 2030, targeting high-traffic retail destinations such as shopping centers and train stations. The company continues to invest in technology and operational efficiency to support its growth.

Real Estate: Auntie Anne's seeks locations in high-traffic areas, including shopping malls, outlet villages, airports, and train stations. The company typically requires 400 to 800 square feet for its stores, with a preference for end-cap or inline spaces with strong visibility. Auntie Anne's works closely with franchisees on site selection, ensuring that each location meets its criteria for footfall, competition, and demographics. The company is actively expanding its footprint and is open to new markets and formats.