Cinnabon

Cinnabon, Inc. is a prominent American bakery chain renowned for its cinnamon rolls and sweet baked goods. Established in 1985 in Federal Way, Washington, the company was the brainchild of Rich Komen and Ray Lindstrom, who collaborated with Seattle baker Jerilyn Brusseau to create their iconic cinnamon roll recipe. The first Cinnabon location opened on December 4, 1985, and quickly captured the public's attention with its freshly baked, aromatic cinnamon rolls made using Makara cinnamon from Indonesia. By the following year, Cinnabon began franchising, expanding beyond its Pacific Northwest origins.

A significant turning point for Cinnabon came in 1998 when it was acquired by AFC Enterprises. This was followed by a transition to GoTo Foods in 2004, during which the company moved its headquarters to the Atlanta area. As of November 2025, Cinnabon operates over 1,200 locations across 48 countries, maintaining a strong footprint both in the United States and internationally. The brand has adapted to various real estate environments through its flexible formats, which include mall bakeries, airport kiosks, units in gas stations, and co-branded locations. This versatility allows Cinnabon to effectively penetrate diverse markets and cater to evolving consumer preferences.

In recent years, Cinnabon has continued to innovate and expand its reach. Notable collaborations, such as its partnership with Pizza Hut to offer Cinnabon Mini Rolls, and the introduction of new products like Cinnabon Iced Coffee in retail channels, highlight the brand's commitment to growth and innovation. The company is actively pursuing expansion opportunities, particularly in high-traffic, non-traditional sites and international markets. With its established brand recognition, scalable franchise model, and diverse store concepts, Cinnabon presents a compelling opportunity for commercial real estate professionals seeking a reliable and high-volume tenant.