What was the net change in the total number of Bens Soft Pretzels outlets during 2024?
Bens_Soft_Pretzels Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Outlet Type | Year | Outlets at the Start of the Year | Outlets at the End of the Year | Net Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 69 | 77 | +8 | |
| Franchised | 2023 | 77 | 75 | -2 |
| 2024 | 75 | 78 | +3 | |
| 2022 | 6 | 5 | -1 | |
| Company | 2023 | 5 | 6 | +1 |
| Owned | ||||
| 2024 | 6 | 7 | +1 | |
| 2022 | 75 | 82 | +7 | |
| Total Outlets | 2023 | 82 | 81 | -1 |
| 2024 | 81 | 85 | +4 |
Source: Item 20 — OUTLETS AND FRANCHISEE INFORMATION (FDD pages 42–46)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bens Soft Pretzels's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the total number of outlets experienced a net increase of 4 during 2024. At the beginning of 2024, there were 81 total outlets, and by the end of the year, this number had risen to 85. This indicates a modest expansion of the franchise system during that year.
Specifically, franchised outlets saw a net increase of 3, growing from 75 at the start of 2024 to 78 by year's end. Company-owned outlets also increased, with a net change of +1, moving from 6 to 7 locations. This suggests growth in both franchised and company-owned segments of Bens Soft Pretzels.
For a prospective franchisee, this data point is encouraging as it shows the brand is expanding. However, it is important to investigate the reasons behind these changes. A franchisee should consider the number of new stores opened versus closures to understand the net change. Further research into specific locations and market conditions would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the brand's performance and growth strategy.