Expansion Roundup: Brands Share Midyear Growth Trajectories

From 50th anniversaries to 50 units and then some, brands are celebrating independent milestones in 2026.

Here are a couple of the latest announcements from select chains:

• Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard: For the 600-plus unit Italian Ice concept, 2026 has brought a 100% increase in franchise ownership inquiries, compared to 2025, with deals for more than 30 new shops as of July 21. Among the plans are those for new units in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Ohio and Texas—pushing the brand past its core Mid-Atlantic market.

• Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop: In 2026—its 50th year of operation—the chain has opened a dozen new units and awarded development rights for 30 additional locations. The year’s development activity has introduced Capriotti’s to new markets including Lake County, Ill.; Killeen, Texas; Tempe, Ariz.; Southern Utah; Charleston, S.C.; and Fort Wayne, Ind. Overall, the brand is working toward a long-term goal of 750 restaurants by 2032. Today, it has over 150 locations across the U.S.

• Layne’s Chicken Fingers: In Q2, the chain celebrated its 50-restaurant milestone in its home state of Texas. It’s also laying the groundwork for a California debut with a new 12-unit deal in partnership with tenured IHOP operators. Existing multiunit franchise owner Taylor Thomas, also a Whataburger franchisee, also has signed an agreement to develop 30 Layne’s locations across Oklahoma.

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