Baskin-Robbins Expands in Arizona

Baskin-Robbins announced that it has plans to expand and is seeking franchisees in Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona, and the surrounding regions.

"As the Baskin-Robbins brand continues to develop in Arizona, we're excited to provide new store owners with the unique opportunity to capitalize on their territory's potential, serve as the face of the brand in the community, as well as set the direction of the market's growth," says Salman Siddiqui, vice president of global business development for Baskin-Robbins.

Baskin-Robbins is hosting a franchising seminar on July 21 at the Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa in Tucson, and July 23 at the Hyatt Regency in Phoenix. Included in the discussions will be the brand's new store designs, marketing, training, site selection, and general franchising.

Baskin-Robbins is also expanding its real estate design concepts. The Cafe 31 model operates as a high-end dessert bar with various ice cream and coffee products, and is currently being tested outside of Boston. The traditional concept is an updated, stand-alone store featuring all of Baskin-Robbins' standard equipment and offerings. Traditional stores can also support a drive-thru depending on the real estate selected. Finally, the BR Express concept is a kiosk design offering a simplified solution for malls, sports arenas, airports, or other small co-branded real estate opportunities.

"By continuing our history of developing new product innovations and keeping our focus on customer service and business success for our franchisees, Baskin-Robbins is providing a completely new experience in 2009," Siddiqui says. "We share common objectives with our store developers, which focus on building and sustaining a profitable business and strong brand in this increasingly challenging economy