Kono USA, the franchisor that offers meals and snacks served in freshly baked dough cones under the brand names “The Original” Kono Pizza and Kono To-Go, Fresh Eats, Treats & Sweets, signed a franchise agreement that will bring 10 new units to the Dallas area. The deal marks the second multiunit agreement signed in the past year by Kono USA, for a total of 20 new locations in the area that will offer a variety of breakfast, deli, pizza, and desserts in a cone.
Franchisee Ryan Kelly and his business partner, Ayhan Baig, are teaming up to expand the brand throughout Dallas. Kelly is a veteran entrepreneur with extensive experience in the franchise industry and the previous owner of several local retail stores in West Texas. Last year, Kono USA signed a 10-unit deal with entrepreneur Sadashiva Pai, whose first location will open in Q1.
“I’ve been a fan of the Kono concept for more than a decade since I first experienced it in the Middle East, and I’m thrilled to be among the first franchisees to bring it to America, particularly in Dallas,” Kelly says. “Whether it’s the delicious pizza cones made with fresh ingredients from Italy, or any of the deli, breakfast, or dessert offerings, Kono cones are a delicious and convenient on-the-go meal, perfect for any time of day.”
According to Kelly, the initial Dallas locations will be mobile units stationed in malls, retail stores, event centers, and venues offering convenient meals-on-the-go for busy consumers. As brand awareness grows, in-line stores, food trucks, and standalone storefronts will be added.
“This second franchise agreement signing in Texas demonstrates the Kono USA brand is primed for growth in the southwest region,” says Carlo Ruggiero, cofounder of Kono USA. “Ryan Kelly is passionate about Kono. His enthusiasm for the brand and his experience in franchising and entrepreneurship make him a fabulous addition to the Kono USA franchisee family.”
The Dallas franchise agreement follows several exciting milestones for Kono USA, including a partnership with Walmart that enables franchisees of “The Original” Kono Pizza and Kono To-Go units to establish mobile presences in the retail stores. The company, with locations in New Jersey and Florida, also signed franchise agreements in Atlanta and Philadelphia, in addition to Dallas.
“Kono USA is a concept completely unique from any snack, meal or pizza option available in the Dallas market,” says David Ragosa, cofounder of Kono USA. “Our products are catching on quickly across America, as we plan to add more than 50 new locations across the country this year.”
