Cinnabon

Cinnabon is a prominent American bakery chain known for its cinnamon rolls and sweet baked goods. It has established a global presence, particularly in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, airports, and travel plazas. The company was founded in 1985 in Federal Way, Washington, by Rich Komen and Ray Lindstrom, who collaborated with Seattle baker Jerilyn Brusseau to craft the signature cinnamon roll recipe using exclusive Makara cinnamon from Indonesia. The first Cinnabon bakery opened on December 4, 1985, quickly attracting a loyal customer base with its warm, aromatic rolls.

Cinnabon's early growth was fueled by its commitment to premium ingredients and a memorable in-store experience, which drew customers from all over shopping centers. The brand expanded rapidly through franchising, opening its first franchise location in 1986 near Philadelphia. By the late 1990s, Cinnabon had become a familiar presence in malls and travel hubs across the United States. In 1998, it was acquired by AFC Enterprises, and in 2004, it became part of GoTo Foods (formerly Focus Brands), a subsidiary of Roark Capital Group. This acquisition led to the relocation of Cinnabon's headquarters to the Atlanta area, where it remains today.

As of November 2025, Cinnabon operates over 1,200 bakeries across 48 countries, maintaining a strong international presence while continually innovating with new menu items and retail partnerships. The brand is actively expanding into nontraditional venues such as gas stations, universities, and amusement parks. Collaborations with major foodservice partners like Pizza Hut have further broadened its reach. Cinnabon's flexible store formats, including full bakeries, kiosks, and express units, allow it to adapt to various real estate environments and consumer traffic patterns.

For commercial real estate professionals, Cinnabon is recognized for its extensive scale and credibility, with a proven track record of driving foot traffic in diverse locations. Its established brand, operational expertise, and adaptable formats make it an attractive tenant for landlords looking to enhance the appeal and performance of their properties. Cinnabon's ongoing expansion and exploration of new markets highlight its dynamic role in the quick-service bakery segment.