Culver's Announces Expansion Plan to 14 States This Year

Culver's, the beloved Midwest burger chain known for its signature ButterBurgers, Fresh Frozen Custard and crispy cheese curds, is significantly expanding this year. The restaurant has announced it’s going to open at least 51 new locations across 14 U.S. states (including its home state Wisconsin) by the end of 2024.

"There is always the possibility that we may open even more, however, the current projections and development tracks are for 51," stated Eric Skrum, Culver's Director of Public Relations and Communications.

The incoming Culver's restaurants will spread across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Wisconsin. While the brand isn't entering any new state markets this year, it is boosting its presence in its existing 14-state territory.

"Arkansas was the last new state we entered which was two years ago," Skrum explained. "Our current focus is to build within our current footprint."

From 2020 to 2023, the fast casual chain opened an impressive 214 new franchised locations across its markets. This recent pace of around 50 openings annually "has become the norm for us...over the last several years," according to Skrum.

However, Culver's co-founder Craig Culver emphasizes that quality trumps quantity. As Skrum relayed, "Craig Culver likes to say 'It's not the number of restaurants you have. It's about the number of good restaurants you have.'"

As Culver's continues expanding its presence, other regional burger brands like Freddy's are making moves too, with plans to add 30 new restaurants across 7 states in 2024.

But for ButterBurger fans, Culver's growth means more chances to enjoy the chain's signature Midwestern eats and frozen custard treats in the year ahead.