Ben poses in front of Freddy’s with his wife, Jayce, and daughter, Wesley. Photo: Freddy’s
Wichita-based Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers signed a multi-unit development agreement with NFL offensive lineman Ben Powers to bring 10 locations to Greenville and Spartanburg Counties in South Carolina.
Powers and GVL Hospitality Group, which includes business partners Brett Rickert and Brian Stevens, will spearhead the expansion with the first property opening next year. The group aims to have all 10 locations operational by 2031, according to a company press release.
“Growing up, I always wanted to do something business-related and prove that I could make a name for myself on and off the football field,” Powers, a Wichita native entering his sixth NFL season and second with the Denver Broncos, said in a company press release. “I’m excited for this business venture with Freddy’s; it’s one of the best burgers you can get and it’s a taste from home for me. I look forward to spreading the joy I have from my hometown with even more communities.”
While Powers continues his NFL career, Rickert and Stevens, franchise owners of Freddy’s restaurants in Columbia, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia, will oversee development.
“Having Brett and Brian running things while I’m playing is reassuring,” Powers said in the release. “They’re great mentors for me and I trust them wholeheartedly as we grow the Freddy’s franchise in South Carolina.”
Freddy’s has over 530 restaurants in 36 states.
