Since when has Arby's, an affiliate of Cinnabon, been franchising?
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, an affiliate of Cinnabon, has been franchising since 1965. In July 2011, Arby's became an Affiliated Program through an acquisition. As of December 29, 2024, there were 3,365 Arby's restaurants operating in the United States, with 2,286 being franchised and 1,079 company-owned, including one multi-brand location. Additionally, 231 single-branded franchised Arby's restaurants were operating internationally as of the same date.
This indicates that Arby's has a long history in the franchise industry, predating Cinnabon's own franchising efforts, which began in 1990. The extensive number of Arby's locations, both franchised and company-owned, suggests a well-established and mature franchise system. The international presence further demonstrates the brand's widespread recognition and acceptance.
For a prospective Cinnabon franchisee, the affiliation with a long-standing franchise system like Arby's could be seen as a positive factor. It suggests that Cinnabon is part of a larger, more experienced network, potentially providing access to resources, best practices, and expertise in franchising. However, it's important to note that the FDD states that affiliated franchisors are not obligated to provide products or services to Cinnabon franchisees, although franchisees may choose to purchase from them.
It is also worth noting that predecessors and former affiliates of Arby's previously offered franchises for T.J. Cinnamons stores, which have all since closed. This highlights the inherent risks in the franchise industry and the importance of carefully evaluating the specific franchise opportunity, even within a larger, seemingly stable network.