How Great American Cookies Became an All-American Franchise Brand

For nearly 45 years, Great American Cookies, the iconic Atlanta-based cookie franchise, has made it a mission to help feed the world’s cookie craving through its franchised locations across the globe. 

In the US, Great American Cookies has grown to become the largest and most recognizable national cookie concept, boasting more than 249 locations across the country with 50 more slated to open by the end of 2022. For savvy entrepreneurs, that means there’s always a lot of dough to be made with this never-out-style favorite.

“Great American Cookies is a brand that is always there to celebrate life’s big occasions, as well as its little moments,” said Chris Cheek, Chief Development Officer of FAT Brands, Quick Service Restaurant Division , Great American Cookies’ multi-brand franchisor. “A cookie is more than just a snack. It’s a vehicle to show someone that you’re thinking about them, or simply a way to give yourself a pick-me-up or well-deserved treat.”

After opening in 1977 with a single store and a beloved family chocolate chip cookie recipe, the brand’s robust menu now includes its classic chocolate chip cookie in addition to favorites like snickerdoodle, innovative offerings like Double Doozie™ icing stuffed cookie sandwiches, freshly baked cookie cakes and decadent brownies, all made with only the highest-quality ingredients. And it’s really no wonder why the brand has seen such monumental success. Cookies are both an anytime treat and an affordable special occasion indulgence. From birthday parties and holiday celebrations to office coffee breaks, there’s never a bad time for a cookie splurge.  

The brand’s universal appeal makes it perfect for malls, movie theaters and other high-traffic venues, where a sweet treat is a welcome sight — and smell. The irresistible and unmistakable aroma of freshly baked, warm gooey treats remain the brand’s most effective marketing tactic. Additionally, Great American Cookies’ co-branded store model with FAT Brands sister brand Marble Slab Creamery offers the perfect indulgence for customers of all ages by pairing gourmet cookies with premium hand-mixed ice cream. 

“Our Great American Cookies and Marble Slab Creamery co-brand has been a huge growth opportunity for both brands,” said Cheek. “Nothing complements a warm, fresh cookie better than ice cream and the integrated concept translates perfectly to nearly any market.” 

The company is currently targeting expansion in markets across the country. Startup costs range from $301,400 to $469,150. Learn more about franchise opportunities here: https://www.greatamericancookiesfranchise.com/. 

About Great American Cookies®: 

Founded in 1977 on the strength of an old family Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe, Great American Cookies has set the standard for gourmet Cookie sales in a fun, celebratory environment. For over 40 years, Great American Cookies has maintained the heritage and integrity of its products by producing proprietary Cookie dough exclusively from its plant in Atlanta. Great American Cookies is known for its signature Cookie Cakes, trademark flavors and menu of delectable products baked fresh in-store. Great American Cookies currently operates in locations across the United States, as well as internationally in Bahrain, Guam, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. For more information about Great American Cookies and store locations, visit www.greatamericancookies.com, follow Great American Cookies' national Twitter handle, @Gr8AmCookies, or become a fan of the brand on Facebook at www.facebook.com/greatamericancookies.