Fresh Kitchen Hires Veterans to Scale Clean-Label Bowls
Fresh Kitchen names Bill Knopf and Matt Livingston to lead operations and development as the clean-label bowl brand targets growth beyond 100 locations.
Jul 18, 2026
Fresh Kitchen names Bill Knopf and Matt Livingston to lead operations and development as the clean-label bowl brand targets growth beyond 100 locations.
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Explore Freddy’s international expansion journey, franchise growth strategies, and the impact of private equity firms in the restaurant industry.
Photo by wallace Henry
Photo by wallace Henry
Freddy’s, a renowned American fast-casual restaurant chain, made a significant move by venturing beyond the U.S. borders and inaugurating its first international location in Winnipeg, Canada. This expansion marks a milestone for Freddy’s, signaling its global ambitions and the appetite for its concept worldwide. By partnering with North 49 Frozen Custard and Steakburgers, Freddy’s aims to establish a strong foothold in Winnipeg over the coming years, promising fans in Canada the same quality and experience that has made Freddy’s a beloved brand in the U.S.
Rhône, a strategic partner to Freddy’s, brings invaluable experience in global business expansion. With a focus on amplifying growth and long-term value creation, Rhône has a track record of success in propelling fast-growing restaurant brands to new heights. The acquisition of Fogo de Chao and its subsequent strategic sale underscore Rhône's prowess in navigating the complexities of the restaurant industry. By leveraging Rhône’s expertise, Freddy’s aims to not just expand geographically but to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience across all touchpoints.
Photo by wallace Henry
Under Thompson Street's stewardship, Freddy’s has been focused on more than just expansion; it has been dedicated to elevating the overall brand performance and franchisee satisfaction. By concentrating on aspects like average unit volumes, operational efficiency, digital solutions, menu innovation, and continuous support to franchisees, Freddy’s is fostering a robust ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders. This comprehensive approach not only drives growth but also ensures the sustainability and competitiveness of the Freddy’s franchise network.
Photo by wallace Henry
In a bid to uphold quality standards and foster innovation, Freddy’s established a state-of-the-art training facility in Wichita, Kansas. This facility serves as a hub for educating managers and franchisees under a standardized curriculum, ensuring consistency and excellence across all Freddy’s outlets. Moreover, the facility doubles as a testing ground for product innovations, allowing Freddy’s to stay at the forefront of culinary trends and consumer preferences. By investing in training and innovation, Freddy’s exhibits a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation in a dynamic industry landscape.
Photo by wallace Henry
With ambitious plans to open 70 franchised units in the current year, Freddy’s is poised for exponential growth, surpassing its previous milestones and expanding its footprint rapidly. The endorsement from Lucas Flynn, Rhône's managing director, further solidifies Freddy’s growth trajectory and commitment to reaching a broader customer base globally. As private equity firms actively seek high-growth brands for investment, the restaurant industry witnesses strategic acquisitions that reshape the competitive landscape. Freddy’s success story amid these industry dynamics highlights the resilience and strategic vision that drive sustainable growth in the franchising sector.