The latest restaurant franchise news highlights campus expansions, and growing footprints across key markets. Erbert & Gerbert’s Sandwich Shop partnered with Sodexo to open two new university locations at the University of Central Missouri and Indiana Wesleyan University to introduce its signature sandwiches and soups to college students. In San Bernardino, local franchisee Tuan “Danny” Nguyen took over as Pit Master and owner of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, aiming to expand catering services and serve classic Texas barbecue staples. Meanwhile, Mountain Mike’s Pizza opened its seventh Oregon location in Wilsonville, offering 20-inch pizzas, an all-you-can-eat buffet, and family entertainment under local owner John Sharma.
Expansion efforts continue across the Southwest and West Coast with new fast-casual openings. Angry Chickz brought its made-to-order spicy chicken tenders, sliders, and bowls to Avondale with customizable heat levels. In Santa Clarita, Nick the Greek launched a new spot serving authentic gyros, souvlaki, and pitas operated by franchisee Nader Shenouda. Also in Santa Clarita, franchisee Omar Mawas introduced the area’s first Farmer Boys location, bringing scratch-made burgers, breakfast items, and family meals to Los Angeles County.
Erbert & Gerbert’s Expands Campus Presence with Two New University Locations
Erbert & Gerbert’s Sandwich Shop partnered with Sodexo to open two new non-traditional university locations at the University of Central Missouri and Indiana Wesleyan University. The campus expansions support the brand’s growth strategy to boost market awareness and introduce its distinctive sandwiches and soups to a new generation of college students.
New Pit Master Takes Over San Bernardino Dickey’s, Brings Fresh Perspective to Hometown Restaurant
Local franchisee Tuan “Danny” Nguyen took over as the new Pit Master and owner of the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in San Bernardino. The new leadership plans to focus heavily on expanding catering services and connecting with the local community through slow-smoked Texas barbecue staples like ribs, brisket, and wings.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza Opens Wilsonville Location, Expanding Oregon Presence
Mountain Mike’s Pizza expanded its Pacific Northwest presence by opening its seventh Oregon restaurant in Wilsonville. Owned by local franchisee John Sharma, the family-friendly space offers 20-inch pizzas, crispy cup-and-char pepperoni, a weekday all-you-can-eat pizza and salad buffet, a kids’ arcade, and big-screen TVs for sports fans.
Angry Chickz to Open in Avondale Sept. 11
Angry Chickz expanded its Southwest footprint by opening its first West Valley restaurant in Avondale. Guests can indulge in the brand’s signature made-to-order tenders, sliders, and bowls, featuring customizable spice levels that range from mild “country” to extreme, waiver-signing “angry” heat.
Nick the Greek Brings Authentic Greek Street Food to Santa Clarita
Nick the Greek expanded its Southern California presence by opening a new restaurant location in Santa Clarita. Operated by local franchisee Nader Shenouda, the fast-casual spot serves authentic Greek street food including vertical rotisserie gyros, charbroiled souvlaki skewers, custom pitas, fresh bowls, and classic baklava.
Farmer Boys Celebrates the Opening of Its First Santa Clarita Location
Farmer Boys expanded its Los Angeles County footprint by opening its first location in Santa Clarita. Franchisee Omar Mawas operates the fast-casual spot, which serves made-from-scratch signature options like the Farmer’s Burger, all-day breakfast burritos, Hot Cakes, and Farmstand Fresh family boxed meals.






