Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers named Andrew Thengvall its chief development officer, the company announced Tuesday.
Thengvall has spent the past six years as Freddy’s senior vice president of strategic growth and chief legal officer. In his new position he will oversee franchise development and growth for the chain. Two recent hires, director of franchise development Mary Coots and director of franchise real estate Todd Phelps, now report directly to him.
Coots joined Freddy’s team in May and most recently served as senior franchise sales manager at Global Franchise Group.
Phelps joined Freddy’s in June and his past experience includes real estate director at The Wendy’s Company as well as real estate management positions at RetailCorridor.com, Great Clips, and GolfTEC.
Thengvall’s team will be responsible for establishing market prioritization, franchise sales, DMA management, identifying prospective new franchisees and coaching prospects through the discovery process.
“Andrew Thengvall’s dedication to advising and strengthening the Freddy’s brand has been stellar and we have the utmost trust in his ability to continue to accelerate our franchise growth in this expanded position,” Chris Dull, Freddy’s CEO, said in a statement. “We are thrilled that he has taken on this new role and excited to see him lead this skilled and enthusiastic team of experts to capitalize on our opportunities for expansion, as one of the fastest-growing franchises in the country.”
Thengvall said he was looking forward to working with his new team.
“In the midst of such an exciting period of growth for Freddy’s, [Coots’ and Phelps’] combined wealth of franchise sales and real estate experience will be a valuable asset as we define our growth plans and decisions. I look forward to leading this team as we accelerate Freddy’s momentum and drive the concept’s footprint throughout markets nationwide.”
According to Datassential’s Firefly 500, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers saw 9.9% unit growth for a total of 1,645 units and 21% same-store sales growth in 2020.