Andy's Frozen Custard signs 20-store franchise agreement

Andy's Frozen Custard Inc. signed a 20-store franchise agreement with a longtime employee of the Springfield company.

Under the agreement, Eric Reed, Andy’s former director of new store development and a 10-year employee, will partner to open new franchise stores in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, Okla., Dallas, Nashville, Tenn., and several markets in central Florida, according to a news release.

"This recent development will enable us to continue on our growth trajectory and maintain our leadership position in the quick-service frozen dessert category,” Andy’s President Andy Kuntz said in the release.

Reed said he expects to hire over 100 employees and managers in each territory.

The deal represents the largest multiunit franchise agreement for Andy’s to date, according to the release. Currently, the frozen custard chain employs 500 and operates 23 stores in Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Texas and Oklahoma.

Kuntz, who could not be reached for comment by deadline, has said the company seeks franchisees with a net worth of at least $1 million, with franchise fees assessed at $32,000 for the initial store and $28,000 for each additional store. Royalties begin at 6 percent and slide down on a curve depending on the number of locations.[[In-content Ad]]