Pasadena-Based Wetzel’s Pretzels Named to List of America’s Top Franchises

Pasadena-based Wetzel’s Pretzels recently earned a spot as one of the top 400 franchise concepts in the country.

Franchise Times ranked it on the publication’s “Top 400” list, a reflection of the revenue growth Wetzel’s has driven over the past year.

“Being recognized among so many incredible franchise brands across the country is a gratifying moment for us. We are in the top tier of brands, ahead of thousands of others in franchising, and we’ve done that by keeping our business model simple and profitable and our menu fun and fresh” said Jennifer Schuler, CEO at Wetzel’s Pretzels in a prepared statement. “Building on this momentum, we’re embracing a mindset of growth. The future of Wetzel’s is bright and we’re eager to continue supporting our bakery owners’ accomplishments.”

Wetzel’s Pretzels was founded in 1994 by Bill Phelps and Rick Wetzel in Pasadena.

Today, Wetzel’s Pretzels has grown to more than 300 bakeries, including premier locations like Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and Universal CityWalk,

Its cult-like following includes famous fans like Ben Affleck, Billie Eilish, Jimmy Kimmel and Kim Kardashian.

As the nation’s leading pretzel chain, the franchise has received numerous accolades, most recently being named to the 2021 Top Food Franchises and the Culture100 by Franchise Business Review. For additional information about the Wetzel’s franchise opportunity, visit WetzelsFranchising.com.

Previously the Top 200+, Franchise Times renamed its annual ranking of the 400 largest U.S.- based franchise systems by global systemwide sales to better encompass the biggest brands in franchising as well as promising young concepts in growth mode.