Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is making its much-anticipated Alberta debut in Okotoks, marking a significant milestone for the American fast-casual chain’s expansion into Canada. This new location at Westmount Centre will be the second Freddy’s restaurant in the country, and the first in Alberta—a move that signals both ambition and confidence in the brand’s ability to resonate with Canadian diners.
A New Flavor in Town
The Okotoks Freddy’s is more than just another burger joint. It’s a carefully chosen launchpad for a brand that prides itself on offering a distinctive dining experience. From its signature smash burgers and shoestring fries to deep-fried pickles, tater tots, and all-beef hot dogs, Freddy’s menu is designed to stand out in a crowded market. These offerings aren’t commonplace in the Canadian fast-casual sector, giving Freddy’s a competitive edge and a fresh appeal.
The restaurant’s arrival is being spearheaded by seasoned franchisee Tomanik, whose name is well-known in Alberta’s hospitality circles. With nearly three decades of experience running Boston Pizza franchises, Tomanik brings a wealth of operational expertise and a deep understanding of the local market. His decision to invest in Freddy’s was born out of curiosity and conviction.
Discovering Freddy’s: A Franchisee’s Journey
Tomanik was introduced to the Freddy’s brand by a colleague nearly two years ago. Intrigued by the concept, he embarked on a personal research journey that ultimately led to his enthusiastic embrace of the franchise. What sold him wasn’t just the food—it was the atmosphere, the quality, and the brand’s unique positioning.
“It’s one of those places that when you’re sitting there and you’re trying to determine who your direct competitors are, it kind of lives in a space kind of unique on its own,” Tomanik explained. “It’s not fast food like a McDonald’s or a Burger King or Wendy’s, but at the same time, we’re not at a level like a Five Guys and some of those higher-end ones.”
This middle-ground positioning is what makes Freddy’s so compelling. It offers a premium product with the convenience of a drive-thru, a combination that’s increasingly rare in today’s retail landscape. Tomanik sees this as a major differentiator—one that could help Freddy’s carve out a loyal customer base in Alberta.
Why Okotoks?
Choosing Okotoks as the first Alberta location was a strategic decision. The town’s small size and close-knit community make it an ideal testing ground for brand reception. Moreover, the availability of a former Tim Hortons site with an existing drive-thru was a logistical win. Drive-thru access is becoming harder to secure in retail spaces, and Freddy’s model depends on it for speed and convenience.
“We wanted to start in a small town to see how the brand is embraced,” Tomanik said. “The drive-thru was a big part of the decision—it’s increasingly difficult to find with retail space.”
The restaurant held a job fair earlier this month and successfully recruited a team of 70 staff members. Many of them are young people from the local community, now undergoing training in preparation for the grand opening. This emphasis on local hiring not only supports the town’s economy but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride among residents.
Building a Brand from the Ground Up
Launching a new brand in a new market is never easy, and Tomanik is well aware of the challenges ahead. Freddy’s may be a household name in parts of the United States, but in Alberta, it’s still relatively unknown. That means building brand awareness from scratch—a task that requires patience, persistence, and a strong belief in the product.
“We know that we have our work cut out for us,” Tomanik admitted. “But I believe so strongly in the product that I decided to take that risk. I think that once people try it, we believe that word will travel and we’ll be able to build it in not too long a time.”
This grassroots approach to marketing—relying on word-of-mouth and customer experience—is a testament to Freddy’s confidence in its offerings. The brand isn’t banking on flashy advertising or gimmicks. Instead, it’s focusing on delivering quality food in a welcoming environment, trusting that satisfied customers will do the rest.
A Menu That Breaks the Mold
Freddy’s menu is a major part of its appeal. The smash burgers, made by pressing fresh beef onto a hot grill to create a crispy edge and juicy center, are a standout item. Shoestring fries offer a nostalgic twist, while deep-fried pickles and tater tots add playful variety. The all-beef hot dogs round out a menu that’s both familiar and refreshingly different.
These items aren’t just tasty—they’re strategic. By offering dishes that aren’t widely available in the Canadian market, Freddy’s positions itself as a destination for food lovers seeking something new. It’s a clever way to attract curious diners and convert them into regulars.
Looking Ahead: Expansion Plans
If the Okotoks location proves successful, Freddy’s has its sights set on broader expansion throughout southern Alberta. The goal is to establish a network of restaurants that can serve both urban and rural communities, bringing Freddy’s signature experience to a wider audience.
This phased approach allows the franchise to learn and adapt as it grows. By starting small and scaling thoughtfully, Freddy’s can maintain quality control and ensure that each new location meets the brand’s high standards.
Community Connection
Beyond the food and the business strategy, Freddy’s aims to be a community hub. The hiring of local youth, the choice of a familiar site, and the emphasis on customer experience all point to a brand that values connection. In a town like Okotoks, where relationships matter, this approach could be the key to long-term success.
Tomanik’s leadership style reflects this ethos. His decades of experience in the restaurant industry have taught him that success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. From staff training to customer service, every detail matters.
Final Thoughts
Arrival of Freddy’s Alberta is more than just a new restaurant opening—it’s the beginning of a culinary shift. By offering a unique blend of premium quality and fast-casual convenience, Freddy’s is poised to redefine what Albertans expect from a burger joint.
With a seasoned franchisee at the helm, a distinctive menu, and a strategic location, the Okotoks Freddy’s has all the ingredients for success. And if Tomanik’s instincts are right, it won’t be long before Freddy’s becomes a beloved name across southern Alberta.
As the doors prepare to open and the grills heat up, one thing is clear: Freddy’s isn’t just entering the Alberta market—it’s setting the stage for something special.
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