Freddy's Largest Franchisee Expands

The acquisition solidifies a longstanding relationship between two Kansas-based hospitality groups. JRI Hospitality was founded in Salina in 2011, while HCI Hospitality got its start in Manhattan, KS, in 2002. HCI opened its first Freddy's franchise in Junction City, Kansas, in 2010 and expanded to operate locations across states like Nebraska, Iowa, Texas, and the Carolinas. The deal involves more than just Freddy's locations. JRI Hospitality's acquisition also includes HCI's other restaurant holdings, notably JC's BBQ and Grill in Junction City, KS, and the Powercat Sports Grill in Manhattan, KS. However, HCI founder Dave Dreiling will retain ownership and operation of the Booth Creek Wagyu brand. To ensure a smooth transition, HCI's CEO, Cam Blakely, will join the JRI Hospitality team. He will take on the role of President of Operations for the JRI Freddy's division, integrating the two teams under the leadership of JRI's founder and CEO, Jason Ingermanson. This purchase is part of a larger, aggressive growth trend for the Freddy's brand. In 2025 alone, the company opened a record 51 new restaurants and signed development agreements for 118 more across the U.S. and Canada. The fast-casual chain now boasts over 580 locations. JRI Hospitality's portfolio extends beyond the burger and custard chain. The Salina-based group also owns and operates restaurants under the Mokas Coffee & Eatery, The Original Grande, and Chompie's brands. The company has a stated goal of expanding its total restaurant holdings by 20 projects per year. The acquisition comes after Freddy's itself was acquired by private equity firm Rhône in September 2025. That deal was intended to fuel further market expansion for the brand, which had already seen its sales grow by nearly 7% in 2024, outpacing many competitors in the fast-casual burger sector.