Bear Rock Foods, Inc.®, the 33 unit Bear Rock Cafe quick casual bakery-cafe concept, has announced plans for continued and expanded growth with nine new franchised units currently underway. The nine leases signed for new franchised locations include: King of Prussia, Pennsylvania; Columbus, Ohio; Wilmington, North Carolina; Parker, Colorado; Austin; Easton, Pennsylvania; Leominster, Massachusetts; Columbia, South Carolina; and Reading, Massachusetts.

Over the past 18 months, Bear Rock has opened 18 restaurants. Including the nine restaurants currently in process, Bear Rock Cafe anticipates opening 20 restaurants in 2005. Some of the additional cities include: Phoenix, Ft. Worth, Chicago, Toledo, Wichita, and Roseland, New Jersey.

With a system wide sales increase in 2004 of 49% compared to 2003, and an increase in corporate staff, which adds over 50 total years of national restaurant experience to the team, Bear Rock Cafe is on target to grow its concept substantially.

“As we look into 2005, Bear Rock Cafe is 33 locations strong with more than 150 signed franchise and area development agreements spanning the next six years,” says Gary Bryant, Bear Rock Foods, Inc., president and CEO. “We have a rock-solid business model, with an emphasis on freshness and a unique selling proposition making Bear Rock Cafe a truly compelling dining choice and well as franchise opportunity. Our thriving network of franchise owners and commitment to additional company-owned units will drive the growth of the Bear Rock Cafe brand for 2005 and for the next several years to come,” he continues.

In addition to featuring sandwiches, salads, breads, soups, baked potatoes, and a full assortment of gourmet desserts, the Bear Rock Cafe menu also includes a Healthy Trends section with low carb and low fat items and a Kid’s Menu which includes a create-your-own sandwich.