When did Cinnabon's predecessor begin franchising, as an affiliated program to Hardees?
Hardees Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Cinnabon franchises Cinnabon® bakeries that feature oven-hot cinnamon rolls, as well as other baked treats and specialty beverages. It also licenses independent third parties to operate domestic and international franchised Cinnabon® bakeries and Seattle's Best Coffee® franchises on military bases in the United States and in certain international countries, and to use the Cinnabon trademarks on products dissimilar to those offered in Cinnabon bakeries. In November 2004, the Cinnabon system became affiliated with GoTo Foods through an acquisition. Cinnabon's predecessor began franchising in 1990. As of December 31, 2024, there were 1,002 franchised and 28 affiliate-owned Cinnabon bakeries in the United States, 1,040 franchised Cinnabon bakeries outside the United States, and 193 franchised Seattle's Best Coffee units outside the United States.
Source: Item 1 — The Franchisor and any Parents, Predecessors, and Affiliates (FDD pages 9–22)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hardees's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Cinnabon is listed as an affiliated franchise program through control with private equity funds. The FDD states that Cinnabon's predecessor began franchising in 1990. As of December 31, 2024, there were 1,002 franchised and 28 affiliate-owned Cinnabon bakeries in the United States, 1,040 franchised Cinnabon bakeries outside the United States, and 193 franchised Seattle's Best Coffee units outside the United States.
It is important to note that Cinnabon became affiliated with GoTo Foods through an acquisition in November 2004. GoTo Foods is the indirect parent company to several franchisors, including Cinnabon. The affiliation with GoTo Foods does not directly relate to Hardees, but rather reflects a common ownership structure through private equity funds.
Prospective Hardees franchisees should understand the relationship between Hardees and its affiliated programs. While they are under common control, they operate independently. This means that owning a Hardees franchise does not automatically grant any rights or benefits related to Cinnabon or other affiliated brands. Franchisees interested in Cinnabon would need to pursue a separate franchise agreement with Cinnabon Franchisor SPV LLC.