With this week’s inclusion in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500, Freddy’s finishing touches on 2011 are complete, and preparations for a new year of accelerated growth are well under way.

“During this very exhilarating time of unprecedented growth for Freddy’s, we will remain focused on our fundamentals: high-quality, cooked-to-order meals served in a clean and welcoming environment by our top-notch staff,” says COO Scott Redler. “We are highly committed to those principles and, as we grow, we are continuing to place emphasis on the hospitable culture of our company. We will always put our guests first.”

Among the new locations for the coming year, Freddy’s will debut in Utah, Florida, Nevada, Arkansas, and New Mexico in 2012, as well as many new regional sites in established states. Freddy’s opened 12 new stores in 2011 and has 30 openings slated for 2012. The relatively young concept continues to demonstrate results from its operations that attract franchise-seeking entrepreneurs.

Even more reassuring is that both the company and its existing franchisees are continuing their expansions, including many that are signing agreements for additional stores.

Experienced restaurateurs have taken note and are seeking out opportunities to get involved with the fast-growing concept.

“We are fortunate to have attracted such an enthusiastic, hard-working, and committed group of individuals to our Freddy’s family at every level,” remarks President Bill Simon. “The employees and franchise operators and owners that this concept has attracted are an extremely passionate and innovative group. They have been the catalyst for our growth and I’m confident that they will continue to be in the coming years.”