Barry Bagels is preparing for a wave of expansion across the Midwest, underscoring its confidence in the region where it first established its roots. The company announced plans to open six new locations by the end of 2025, following the July debut of a new shop in Ohio. Among the cities slated for openings are Clawson, Michigan; Prospect, Kentucky; Louisville; Dayton, Ohio; and additional sites in suburban Cleveland and Hilliard, Ohio. The growth reflects both strong regional demand and the brand’s commitment to communities that have supported it for decades.
Jim Nusbaum, chief executive officer of Barry Bagels Franchise Holdings, said the company’s identity remains deeply tied to the Midwest. “The Midwest is where our roots run deep, and it remains the heartbeat of Barry Bagels,” he said. Nusbaum credited the brand’s steady growth to its combination of warm hospitality, fresh food, and fair pricing, qualities that continue to resonate with customers in both urban and suburban markets.
The expansion is designed to extend beyond storefronts and into the communities where Barry Bagels operates. Each new location will create jobs and support local causes through school fundraisers, daily food donations to shelters, and partnerships with organizations such as Ronald McDonald House. The company hopes this approach will further strengthen customer loyalty and embed the brand in the daily lives of its guests.
Quality remains central to Barry Bagels’ strategy. All bagels are baked fresh throughout the day in small batches without preservatives, ensuring what Nusbaum describes as a “just-out-of-the-oven” taste. This commitment to freshness, he argues, sets the brand apart in a competitive fast-casual landscape and has helped maintain its reputation for consistency.
At the same time, the company is working to expand revenue opportunities for its franchisees. Beyond in-store sales, Barry Bagels is emphasizing catering services, wholesale collaborations with businesses and institutions, and third-party delivery partnerships through platforms such as DoorDash. These channels are designed to diversify income streams and support sustainable returns for franchise operators.
By doubling down on the region where its brand is most established, Barry Bagels is positioning itself for steady and intentional growth. The upcoming openings will test the strength of its model in new markets while showcasing how a legacy brand can adapt to changing consumer habits without losing its sense of authenticity.