Cold Stone Creamery Accelerates Michigan Expansion

August 12, 2026 // Franchising.com // SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Cold Stone Creameryi s accelerating its expansion across Michigan, with plans to develop eight to 12 new locations over the next four years. Building on its existing footprint of 27 stores statewide, the brand is actively seeking franchise partners to bring its signature ice cream experience to communities throughout the Great Lakes State.

The announcement comes as Cold Stone Creamery continues its national growth momentum after being recognized among Yelp's 2026 Fastest-Growing Restaurant Brands, reinforcing the brand's strong consumer demand driving the brand’s continued search for new franchise partners.

"Michigan continues to be an exciting market for us, particularly as the Detroit metro area experiences renewed economic growth and investment," said Blake Borwick, brand leader at Cold Stone Creamery. "We know there are many loyal Cold Stone fans who currently travel significant distances to visit one of our stores, and we're looking forward to working with franchise partners to bring the brand closer to the communities that have been asking for it."

A new Cold Stone Creamery location is currently under construction in Plymouth, a suburb of Detroit, and is projected to open this fall. An additional Michigan location has also been awarded and is in the early stages of development.

Current franchise partner Kyle Welch, whose ownership group operates four Cold Stone Creamery locations in Michigan, has seen firsthand the opportunity the market presents.

"Michigan has tremendous potential for Cold Stone Creamery because we've seen firsthand how passionate people are about the brand," said Welch. "As new businesses, restaurants and residents continue investing in communities across the state, especially throughout the Detroit metro area, we see an incredible opportunity to introduce the Cold Stone experience to even more families."

Cold Stone Creamery offers a flexible, scalable model rooted in premium ice cream, memorable guest experiences and comprehensive operational support. Franchise owners benefit from proven systems, advanced tools and resources, and leadership guidance that empowers franchisees to grow efficiently and achieve business goals.

SOURCE Cold Stone Creamery

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