Corner Bakery expanding to three new markets

Advertisement Corner Bakery Café is tapping into the Portland, Ore., Minneapolis-St. Paul and Orlando, Fla., markets. The Dallas-based fast-casual restaurant, which has more than 140 locations in 14 states and Washington, D.C., said it plans to open 11 locations in Portland,18 in Orlando, Fla., and another 18 in the Twin Cities. The expansion is part of a previously announced plan to double Corner Bakery's footprint in the United States over the next four years. The growth will be accomplished primarily through franchising. "These markets are a perfect for Corner Bakery Cafe," Jonathan Benjamin, vice president of franchising at Corner Bakery, said in a press release. "Each is known for their strong neighborhoods and with our neighborhood approach to development, we expect each new restaurant to quickly become a favorite gathering place for local families and friends. Add the fact that fast casual is the fastest growing segment of the restaurant industry, and that makes Corner Bakery Café an ideal concept for entrepreneurs and multi-unit operators looking for new opportunities in these markets." The chain currently is evaluating potential franchisees for each market.