Bob & Edith’s Diner, an iconic Washington, D.C., eatery announced it is now franchising with the help of Fransmart. Bob & Edith’s Diner is working with Fransmart to find experienced franchisees who will drive the concept’s next phase of growth, and introduce its comfort food to new markets across North America—starting with Washington, D.C., Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina.
“With its stellar reputation and iconic status, this concept is going to go fast,” says Dan Rowe, CEO of Fransmart. “There is very little competition—and therefore huge potential—in the diner space, and Bob & Edith’s format is perfectly positioned for rapid growth.”
Famously open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Bob & Edith’s Diner has been a D.C.-area favorite since 1969, when Robert and Edith Bolton opened the doors of their first location. Originally a 10-stool counter, the diner expanded over the years and now operates four locations throughout Arlington, Crystal City, Alexandria, and Springfield, Virginia. A fifth location is opening in Arlington in 2020. The family-run business is now owned by their son, Greg Bolton, and managed by their grandchildren, Tammy and Chris Bolton.
“We want to make sure that each customer feels welcomed—that’s why we have so many regulars who have been coming here since 1970. And who doesn’t want breakfast all day?” Bolton says. “Building on a strong, 50-year reputation, we believe Bob & Edith’s can be successful anywhere in the world. We are confident that Fransmart will be a strategic partner in helping us find highly motivated franchisees who share our passion for good food, and will help us expand into new markets.”
Bob & Edith’s Diner is also a favorite among celebrities, athletes, politicians, and secret service officials. The concept has already grabbed the interest of brokerages, including Retail Strategist Lee Engle at CBRE.
“This is the perfect tenant right now—it’s small, does high volume, and they love conversions, which keeps their opening costs down,” Engle adds. “On top of that, this is a brand that should get tenant improvement allowances from landlords. It is an iconic brand that just hit four locations and is the same size as Five Guys Burgers & Fries when they started to expand.”
