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Baskin-Robbins, has signed development agreements with two franchise groups to develop three new ice cream shops in Banning and Temecula, Calif., over the next few years. But the brand has also just launched a unique new development strategy by creating a "ready-to-operate shop" for potential franchisees.
New franchise group M DB Enterprises, LLC, led by husband-and-wife team Hemant and Hemlatta Bhakta, plans to develop one new shop in Banning. Hemant previously held several positions with Baskin-Robbins before deciding to open his own shop. The new Banning location is planned to open at the end of this year.
Gary and Maria Yarbrough have been Baskin-Robbins franchisees since 2011 and plan to develop two new shops in Temecula. They currently own and operate a Baskin-Robbins in Chula Vista and are developing a second location in the area, which is slated to open in April. Their first ice cream shop in Temecula is planned to open in 2017, with the second location following in 2018.
To fuel additional growth throughout the state, Baskin-Robbins recently launched a new development strategy offering turn-key opportunities to individuals interested in becoming franchisees, but with an easier start. Baskin-Robbins has plans to develop a new 1,000 square-foot shop in the proposed Breakwater Town Center in Imperial Beach and is currently seeking a local entrepreneur interested in owning the location. By purchasing a ready-to-operate shop, a franchisee can avoid the site selection and development phase.
"Our secret to continued growth includes passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day, and we are thrilled the Bhaktas and Yarbroughs will be expanding our brand in Southern California," said Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of global franchising and business development, Dunkin' Brands. "As we continue to foster and grow our relationship with California ice cream lovers, we're looking for motivated entrepreneurs who have a passion for their local communities to join our team and take advantage of these new turn-key opportunities."