3 days ago
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- Business Journals
Magnolia Bakery plans Chicago expansion through franchise program
New York City-based Magnolia Bakery plans to expand its Chicago presence through a new U.S. franchise program, a first for the company in its nearly 30 years of existence.
The bakery currently has 12 locations across New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles.
Its only Chicago shop is downtown at 108 N. State St., where 30 employees work.
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'We are looking forward to expanding our footprint with additional retail bakeries in neighborhoods across Chicago,' said Magnolia Bakery CEO Bobbie Lloyd.
Courtesy of Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia will open its first franchise location in Salt Lake City next year, and is eyeing Chicago next.
Local neighborhoods targeted for Magnolia shops include River North, Fulton Market, Lincoln Park and Wrigleyville. The bakery aims to also open suburban locations in Naperville, Wilmette, Highland Park, Vernon Hills and Oak Park.
'We look at neighborhoods that have a mix of residential, tourism, entertainment, retail, office buildings and a cultural draw,' said Bobbie Lloyd, CEO and chief baking officer of Magnolia Bakery. 'We are looking forward to expanding our footprint with additional retail bakeries in neighborhoods across Chicago.'
Store sizes will vary from 1,200 to 2,000 square feet.
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Magnolia Bakery plans to expand its Chicago presence through a new U.S. franchise program.
Courtesy of Bryan Johnson Studio
Magnolia recently hired Jason Mattes as vice president of domestic franchise development to lead the company's franchise growth.
'With today's booming premium dessert market, coupled with Magnolia Bakery's high-quality products, this franchising initiative offers a unique opportunity for franchisees to deliver an elevated experience that stands apart from typical dessert franchises,' Lloyd said.
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