Auntie Anne's: Leading the Hand-Rolled Soft Pretzel Revolution

Auntie Anne's was established in 1988 by Anne Beiler, starting from a single stand at a Pennsylvania farmer's market. This modest beginning paved the way for what would become a global entity in the quick-service restaurant industry. By 1991, merely a few years after its founding, Auntie Anne's began franchising, swiftly expanding its reach and becoming a prominent name in the hand-rolled soft pretzel market. Today, the franchise's headquarters are located in Atlanta, Georgia.

Auntie Anne's distinguishes itself in a competitive market by focusing on hand-rolled soft pretzels, a niche that has allowed it to secure a substantial market share. The franchise's dedication to quality and simplicity is reflected in its freshly baked products and straightforward menu. Auntie Anne's business model is adaptable to various high-traffic environments, with flexible footprint options ideal for places like airports, college campuses, and shopping malls, which enhances its accessibility and broadens its customer base.

Auntie Anne's partnership with Focus Brands® has significantly bolstered its market position, offering franchisees access to a robust supply chain and excellent purchasing power. This collaboration, combined with extensive support in marketing, real estate, and business development, makes Auntie Anne's a compelling choice for entrepreneurs seeking to invest in a reliable and profitable business model in the food and beverage industry.

Training 

Auntie Anne's provides a comprehensive training program to ensure franchisees are fully equipped to manage their businesses efficiently. Here’s an overview of the training process:

Before launching the store, essential trainees, including one Manager, one additional employee involved in business operations, and any other individuals designated by Auntie Anne's, are required to attend and successfully complete the Management Training Program to Auntie Anne's satisfaction.

Furthermore, the Primary Contact must also successfully complete a condensed version of the Management Training Program specifically designed for Primary Contacts.

The Management Training Program is offered periodically and can be conducted either online or in person at the corporate headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, or at other approved locations.

Territory Protection

Franchisees do not receive exclusive territories and may encounter competition from other franchisees, Auntie Anne's owned outlets, or other distribution channels and competitive brands controlled by Auntie Anne's.

For those operating a Concession Shop, it is mandatory to submit all intended operating locations in advance for written approval from Auntie Anne's. Generally, Auntie Anne's will not approve the operation of a Concession Shop within two miles of a permanent Full Shop location.

The Franchise Agreement authorizes you to manufacture and sell Approved Products at retail exclusively from the specific Shop location accepted by Auntie Anne's.