Corner Bakery Cafe is welcoming a new franchise partner in Pennsylvania as TJ Rice, founder of Rice Equity Group, takes ownership of its Horsham cafe. Rice adds Corner Bakery to a multi-brand portfolio that includes Subway, Captain D’s and Massage Envy, bringing an experienced operator with existing business and family ties to the Philadelphia region into the brand’s growing franchise network.
“Welcoming experienced operators like TJ is an important part of how we’re building Corner Bakery’s future,” said Erin Hasselgren, president of Corner Bakery Cafe. “He brings a strong operating foundation, a focus on developing teams and a personal appreciation for the guest experience that defines our cafes. We’re excited to welcome him to the Corner Bakery family and support his investment in the PA Market.”
Rice brings more than five years of restaurant and hospitality experience, with a focus on multi-unit operations, franchise development and team leadership. Through Rice Equity Group, he emphasizes consistent guest experiences, strong operating systems and opportunities for employees to develop and advance.
For Rice, joining Corner Bakery also builds on a connection formed as a guest. He and his family have enjoyed visiting the brand’s cafes throughout the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia region, drawn to the inviting atmosphere and variety of food.
“We have tremendous confidence in Erin Hasselgren’s leadership and his vision for the future of Corner Bakery Cafe,” said Rice. “At Rice Equity Group, we are deliberate in selecting the brands and leadership teams with whom we partner, and we see an exceptional opportunity to grow alongside Erin and the Corner Bakery team. Our ambition is to become one of Corner Bakery’s most trusted and valued franchise partners, bringing the operational infrastructure, financial discipline, experienced leadership, and multi-unit execution capabilities necessary to support disciplined expansion.”
Rice’s family and business interests already have roots in Pennsylvania. His wife is a Temple University alumna, and the couple owns and operates health and wellness clinics in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh markets. Taking ownership of the Horsham cafe builds on those connections and his commitment to continued investment in the region.
The Horsham acquisition marks the beginning of Rice Equity Group’s investment in Corner Bakery, with Rice looking to build a broader presence with the brand. His long-term commitment reflects the opportunity he sees in Corner Bakery’s future and adds an experienced, growth-minded partner to its franchise network.
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