How many single-branded Arby's restaurants were operating internationally as of December 29, 2024, considering its affiliation with Carvel?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Arby's, have not offered franchises in any other line of business.
Arby's is a franchisor of quick-serve restaurants operating under the Arby's® trade name and business system that feature slow-roasted, freshly sliced roasted beef and other deli-style sandwiches. In July 2011, Arby's became an Affiliated Program through an acquisition. Arby's has been franchising since 1965. Predecessors and former affiliates of Arby's have, in the past, offered franchises for other restaurant concepts including T.J. Cinnamons® stores that served gourmet baked goods. All of the T.J. Cinnamons locations have closed. As of December 29, 2024, there were 3,365 Arby's restaurants operating in the United States (2,286 franchised and 1,079 company-owned), including one multi-brand location. Additionally, as of December 29, 2024, there were 231 s
Source: Item 1 — The Franchisor and any Parents, Predecessors, and Affiliates (FDD pages 9–24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, as of December 29, 2024, there were 231 single-branded franchised Arby's restaurants operating internationally. Carvel is affiliated with Arby's through common ownership by Inspire Brands. This indicates that while Carvel focuses on ice cream shops, its parent company also oversees the Arby's franchise system.
For a Carvel franchisee, this information provides context about the broader network and resources available through the parent company, Inspire Brands. Knowing that Arby's has a significant international presence could be reassuring, as it suggests experience in navigating international markets. However, it's important to remember that Carvel franchisees will primarily interact with the Carvel franchise system, not directly with Arby's operations.
The success and operational strategies of Arby's, while under the same umbrella company, may not directly translate to the Carvel franchise. Prospective franchisees should focus on the specific support, training, and brand recognition offered within the Carvel system itself. Understanding the performance and strategies of affiliated brands can offer a broader perspective on the parent company's capabilities, but the focus should remain on the Carvel-specific opportunity.