#United States #fast-casual #Seafood #Cousins Maine Lobster #Gainesville, Savannah

Cousins Maine Lobster Expands in Florida and Georgia

Cousins Maine Lobster (CML), a prominent name in the fast-casual lobster roll industry, is set to expand its reach further into Florida and Georgia. The brand has officially entered into an agreement with experienced entrepreneurs Damon Cole and Mandy Ottesen to introduce a new food truck in Gainesville and Savannah. This endeavor marks a significant milestone as it represents CML's eighth location in Florida and third in Georgia, underlining the brand's commitment to establishing a strong southern presence.

The new food truck is scheduled to roll out in July 2025, bringing with it a delectable menu featuring premium lobster rolls and other beloved Maine specialties. This strategic expansion is not just about serving delicious food; it's also about building strong ties with the local communities in these vibrant markets. Damon Cole, a former marine engineer and dedicated culinary enthusiast, expressed his excitement about the new venture, saying, "We're thrilled to announce Cousins Maine Lobster's arrival in Gainesville and Savannah, catering to all lobster lovers in the area." Cole's passion for authentic Maine lobster stems from his father's legacy of working along the East Coast.

His partner, Mandy Ottesen, a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich background in running a successful lice removal franchise, complements the duo with her sharp business acumen and a heartfelt commitment to community service. Together, their burning love for lobster and their desire to make a meaningful impact in the local food scene led to the launch of their first Cousins Maine Lobster truck in Jacksonville, FL, back in November 2024.

As one of the fastest-growing seafood concepts across the United States, Cousins Maine Lobster is on a remarkable trajectory, with an ambitious plan to open 30 new units within the current year alone, aiming to develop a 100-unit brand by the close of 2025. In 2024, the company secured over 30 development agreements with new franchisees, enhancing its operational footprint not only in the southern states but also with expansions in markets such as Kansas City and Louisville.

Currently, the average Cousins Maine Lobster franchisee operates approximately six units, achieving an astonishing food truck annual unit volume of $1.3 million. This growth is propelled by the rising demand for their high-quality seafood offerings. Lindsay Herberger, Director of Franchise Development at Cousins Maine Lobster, stated, "Cousins Maine Lobster is expanding across the country thanks to dedicated and experienced operators like Damon and Mandy. Our franchise model provides entrepreneurs with a chance to join a family-owned business that delights guests with top-notch products and efficient operations."

The brand is actively searching for franchisees that are well-funded, enthusiastic, and keen on introducing innovative concepts to their respective markets. Cousins Maine Lobster aims to attract new operators interested in building additional units and delivering exceptional seafood with outstanding customer service. With a proven business model designed for flexibility, franchisees can successfully launch food trucks in a mere three to six months, minimizing overhead and labor costs while ensuring an efficient market entry.

Areas identified for potential new franchise opportunities span strong demand regions, including San Diego, California; Reno, Nevada; alongside various locations in the Midwest such as St. Louis, Missouri; Des Moines, Iowa; and Fort Wayne, Indiana, as well as Columbia, South Carolina.

Cousins Maine Lobster's mission revolves around connecting local communities with the highest quality Maine lobster rolls via their celebrated food trucks, brick-and-mortar establishments, and an inviting online gourmet shop that delivers live Maine lobsters right to customers' doors. Co-founded in 2012 by cousins Sabin Lomac and Jim Tselikis, the brand has blossomed from its humble beginnings into a significant player in the fast-casual seafood industry. Following their appearance on Shark Tank, where they partnered with real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran, Cousins Maine Lobster has become one of the most successful investments stemming from the show.

For those intrigued by franchise opportunities or wishing to discover more about the delectable offerings of Cousins Maine Lobster, additional details can be found at www.cousinsmainelobster.com/franchise. Don't forget to follow their journey and find a local truck near you on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube under @cousinsmainelobster, or on Twitter @cousinsmainlob.

This expansion signifies not only growth for Cousins Maine Lobster but a delicious opportunity for lobster lovers in Georgia and Florida to indulge in premium seafood experiences.