By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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MACHESNEY PARK — After supply-chain issues delayed the shipment of some equipment, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is ready to open its first restaurant in the Rockford region.
The Wichita, Kansas-based chain plans to open its 17th location in Illinois and first here on April 12. The restaurant is located at 9901 Orlando St.
It had initially planned to open in mid-February and moved the opening day due to the equipment delay.
“We are now in the process of completing a few more installations,” franchise owner Eric Cole said in an email response to questions from the Rock River Current. “We look forward to serving and getting to know the Machesney Park community.”
Related: Chick-fil-A opens in Machesney Park
The Machesney Park location is opening on the heels of a significant growth year for Freddy’s. The company reported a nearly 18% increase year-over-year sales in 2021, and it opened 32 restaurants in key markets throughout the past year. That included its first locations in New Jersey and Wisconsin.
“On the heels of Freddy’s acquisition by Thompson Street Capital Partners in early 2021, last year marked one of the most transformative and noteworthy years in our company’s history,” Chris Dull, CEO of Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, said in a February news release. “In the midst of continued growth and development systemwide, we leveraged this new partnership to invest in unparalleled corporate leadership and operational excellence while putting franchisees and their success first.”
Cole said the goal is to hire roughly 50 local employees. You can apply for a job here: freddysusa.com/careers.
Related: Fuego Nuevo Grill to take over vacant East State Street restaurant space
The fast-casual restaurant is known for its steakburgers, Vienna beef hotdogs, chicken sandwiches, custard and specialty sundaes.
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on Twitter at @KevinMHaas.