United States-based fast-food chain, Carl’s Jr. plans to expand in Australia by opening five new franchised restaurants over the next 12 to 18 months after the collapse of their master franchisee last year.
“The headlines suggested the Carl’s Jr. brand was leaving Australia, which was incorrect,” Gaven Needham, General Manager Asia Pacific at Carl’s Jr.’s parent company, CKE Restaurant Holdings, Inc., said “It was one franchise group who encountered difficulties, and we stepped in to maintain operations in as many restaurants as possible.”
Carl’s Jr. engaged suppliers, landlords, and franchisees to ensure continued business operations and minimise disruptions. Some existing and a few new franchisees acquired several of the affected restaurants, bringing the total operational outlets to 29, with more location openings planned throughout 2025.
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“We have restaurants that closed as part of the voluntary administration, but then quickly reopened under new ownership,” he said. “We had staff jumping at the opportunity to come back and work at our restaurants and local customers excited for Carl’s Jr. to be a key part of their local communities again. This has reinforced our confidence in the brand and our commitment to the Australian market.”
Needham believes Carl’s Jr. has a unique value proposition. “, We offer a quality product that’s not like every other chain and we remain committed to delivering our differentiated experience of quality, innovation and flavour,” he said.
“We’ve learned that the brand is loved in Australia, and we’re dedicated to supporting our franchisees, expanding our footprint, and continuing to offer the Carl’s Jr. experience to our loyal customers,” Needham said.