Wetzel’s Pretzels Brings Handheld Happiness to Merrillville

December 02, 2025 // Franchising.com // MERRILLVILLE, Ind. – Wetzel’s Pretzels (Wetzel’s) is opening its second bakery in the Merrillville, Indiana area. The brand has joined forces with Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, to continue its development in the Midwest.

The new bakery signifies Wetzel’s Pretzels’ continued development in high-traffic retail environments, including prime Walmart locations. It brings even more flavor to the community with craveable snacks and refreshing drinks, a perfect pairing for any shopping trip. Veteran Wetzel’s operator, Ayman Hadi, is spearheading the opening. After moving to the U.S. in 2017, Hadi began working in the nutrition and medical field before shifting into his next career chapter with Wetzel’s two years later. He currently operates nine locations across the country, including three in Indiana, and is committed to growing the brand nationwide.

“I was drawn to Wetzel’s Pretzels because of how the brand cares for both its products and its people,” said Hadi. “It’s an honor to develop another store in the Merrillville area and look forward to serving fresh pretzels to the community with the same friendly service our guests know and love.”

The Merrillville Walmart location showcases the flexibility of the Wetzel’s concept, offering a buildout design that is adaptable to the retailer’s footprint. As the brand continues expanding in non-traditional spaces, its store-within-a-store model proves ideal for integration into Walmart locations.

“We are thrilled to keep expanding our presence in Indiana and proud to have Ayman leading the way as we bring handheld happiness to Merrillville,” said Jon Fischer, Head of Development at Wetzel’s Pretzels. “As we continue opening in more Walmart locations, this initiative showcases the adaptability of our concept and how it allows us to reach even more communities nationwide. We’re confident this bakery will be a hit with shoppers looking for a fresh, fast, and fun snack experience.”

Wetzel’s has been sharing its signature handheld happiness ever since its founding in Pasadena, California, in 1994. The brand continues to attract a cult-like following in communities across North America through its cool SoCal feel and crave-worthy snacks that cultivate special moments of pure pretzel bliss between friends, family, and colleagues.

SOURCE Wetzel’s Pretzels

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