JRI Hospitality Expands Freddy's Portfolio to 130+ Locations with HCI Acquisition
HOSPITALITY
Restaurant group expands to 130+ Freddy’s locations across 18 states through HCI Hospitality acquisition.
JRI Hospitality has acquired HCI Hospitality's restaurant operations, adding 43 Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers locations to its portfolio. The Salina, Kansas-based restaurant group now operates over 130 Freddy's restaurants across 18 states, solidifying its position as the brand's largest franchisee.
Strategic Acquisition Details
The acquisition brings JRI's Freddy's footprint from 88+ units in 15 states to 130+ operations spanning 18 states. Beyond the Freddy's locations, the deal includes HCI's JC's BBQ and Grill in Junction City, Kansas, and Powercat Sports Grill in Manhattan, Kansas. Booth Creek Wagyu will continue operating independently under Dave Dreiling, HCI's founder.
Jason Ingermanson, Founder and CEO of JRI Hospitality, emphasized the cultural alignment between the organizations. "The acquisition of HCI is a unique opportunity to bring two great teams together," Ingermanson said. "Their reputation, consistent performance, and commitment to integrity and quality align closely with our own values, and we look forward to continuing to bring unique, memorable experiences for our guests across all operations nationwide."
Leadership Integration
To facilitate integration, Cam Blakely, CEO of HCI Hospitality, will join JRI as President of Operations for JRI's Freddy's division. This leadership appointment ensures operational continuity while leveraging HCI's experience managing multi-unit fast-casual operations.
Dave Dreiling expressed confidence in the transition. "I am thrilled to have HCI's restaurant operations become part of JRI Hospitality under Jason's strong leadership," Dreiling said. "Our shared mission of genuine hospitality and expanded opportunities for our team members will guide us in this next chapter, as we grow with a commitment to guest satisfaction and positively impacting the communities we serve."
Expanded Portfolio and Growth Strategy
With 15 years in business, JRI Hospitality now operates over 145 restaurants across multiple concepts. Beyond Freddy's, the company's portfolio includes Mokas Coffee & Eatery, Chompie's Restaurants & Deli, and the Salina Country Club.
Mokas Coffee & Eatery represents a key growth initiative for JRI. After 20 years of success in Kansas, the handcrafted coffee roastery and eatery known for made-to-order breakfast and lunch is actively pursuing franchise expansion into new communities. The concept benefits from backing by Scott Redler, co-founder of Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and current Mokas Board Member.
HCI Hospitality Background
Founded in 2002, HCI Hospitality built a diverse portfolio over two decades. The company operated more than 40 Freddy's locations alongside award-winning local restaurants in the Manhattan and Junction City, Kansas areas. HCI's experience managing multiple restaurant formats across different markets provided operational expertise that complements JRI's growth objectives.
The Manhattan, Kansas-based company positioned itself as providing "homegrown Midwest hospitality," establishing strong community connections in its operating markets. This community-focused approach aligns with JRI's commitment to local partnerships, sponsorships, and charitable initiatives.
JRI Hospitality's Operating Philosophy
JRI Hospitality operates under the belief that food brings people together. The company emphasizes exceptional guest experiences while serving as a dedicated community partner through local engagement and charitable initiatives. Operational excellence, quality, and consistency form the foundation of the company's national expansion strategy.
The 2011-founded company has grown from its Kansas roots to become a significant multi-state restaurant operator. JRI's focus on disciplined growth includes franchise development initiatives for Mokas Coffee & Eatery alongside strategic expansion of its Freddy's portfolio.
Freddy's Franchise Leadership
The acquisition reinforces JRI's position as Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers' largest franchisee. Operating 130+ locations provides significant scale advantages in procurement, marketing, and operational support while maintaining the brand standards that drive customer loyalty.
Freddy's fast-casual concept combines steakburgers, hot dogs, and frozen custard in a format that has supported franchisee expansion across multiple markets. JRI's growth demonstrates the brand's viability in diverse geographic markets and competitive environments.
Market Presence and Future Expansion
JRI's 18-state footprint provides geographic diversification while creating opportunities for regional clustering that improves operational efficiency. The company continues evaluating expansion opportunities for both its Freddy's operations and other portfolio concepts including Mokas Coffee & Eatery.
The acquisition positions JRI to leverage combined purchasing power, shared best practices, and operational synergies across its expanded restaurant base. Integration of HCI's operations provides immediate scale while maintaining the local market knowledge and community relationships that both organizations value.
For more information about JRI Hospitality, visit www.jriusa.com.