March 2026 — JRI Hospitality, the largest Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers franchisee, has expanded its footprint to more than 130 locations across 18 states following the acquisition of fellow Midwestern operator HCI Hospitality. The deal adds 43 Freddy’s units to JRI’s portfolio, reinforcing its leadership position within the brand’s growing national system.
A Merger of Culture and Systems
JRI Hospitality, led by CEO Jason Ingermanson, previously operated nearly 90 Freddy’s locations. The acquisition of HCI Hospitality—founded by Dave Dreiling, a 15-year Freddy’s veteran—was a natural fit.
“Our teams and systems had a lot of connection because of our collaboration together,” said Ingermanson. “A lot of their stores were in the same regions where we were operating.”
To ensure a smooth transition, Cam Blakely, HCI’s CEO, joined JRI as President of Operations for Freddy’s, bringing continuity and operational expertise.
Scaling with Confidence
The acquisition process took approximately four months, and Ingermanson credits shared values and operational alignment for the seamless integration.
“[HCI] had similar systems and a strong focus on guest experience and team member care,” Ingermanson said. “With those things aligning so well, it wasn’t very difficult to unite those systems.”
The expansion adds three new states to JRI’s reach and strengthens Freddy’s presence in the Midwest.
Freddy’s Growth by the Numbers
- Founded: 2002 in Wichita, Kansas
- 2024 Openings: 33 new locations
- Total Units (2024): 550
- Average Unit Volume: $1.86 million across 463 franchised locations
- Franchise Cost Range: $785,936 to $2.75 million
Despite challenges in the industry—including a 2024 bankruptcy filing by 31-unit operator M&M Custard—Freddy’s continues to expand through strategic partnerships and franchisee growth.
Beyond Freddy’s: Mokas Coffee & Eatery
Ingermanson also serves as the franchisor of Mokas Coffee & Eatery, a brand he founded two decades ago. Mokas began franchising last year and is gaining traction, with:
- A third corporate location is opening in Wichita this April
- Two new franchise agreements expected within three months
- The first franchisee, Christian Coleman, broke ground in Olathe, Kansas
Mokas benefits from a seasoned leadership team, including Mark Scholler, former VP of franchising at Freddy’s, and Scott Redler, Freddy’s co-founder, who sits on the Mokas board.
Investing in People
For Ingermanson, growth is about more than numbers—it’s about opportunity.
“A team member may walk in the door and get a job, but we give them tools to be successful,” he said. “Our hope is that one day, they’ll open a business of their own—or maybe franchise Mokas.”
JRI’s vision centers on career development, team member respect, and guest experience, making it a model for sustainable franchise growth.