When did Arby's become an Affiliated Program of Cinnabon?
Cinnabon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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 single-branded franchised Arby's restaurants operating internationally.
Source: Item 1 — The Franchisor and any Parents, Predecessors, and Affiliates (FDD pages 9–25)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cinnabon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Arby's became an Affiliated Program in July 2011 through an acquisition. This means that Arby's is under the umbrella of franchise programs affiliated with Cinnabon, due to shared ownership or control by private equity funds like Roark Capital Management.
As an Affiliated Program, Arby's does not have any obligation to provide products or services to Cinnabon franchisees. However, Cinnabon franchisees have the option to purchase products or services from Arby's if they choose to do so. This affiliation is due to common ownership rather than a direct business relationship.
It's important for potential Cinnabon franchisees to understand these affiliations, as they indicate the broader network and potential resources available through the parent company, GoTo Foods. However, the FDD clearly states that these affiliated franchisors are not obligated to provide any direct support or services to Cinnabon franchisees.