Huddle House expands into Western Pennsylvania

Huddle House was recently featured in the Observer-Reporter in an article about the new opening in Claysville as well as delving into the future expansion plans for Western Pennsylvania. The article goes on about how Huddle House has adapted to the economic climate, lowering the initial franchise fee, hoping to spur multi-unit expansion. A portion of the story is shared below, and you can view the full article here.

Casual dining chain Huddle House opens in Claysville, looks to bring more W. Pa. stores
By Michael Bradwell, Business editor

Huddle House, a casual dining chain focused primarily in the Southeast, recently opened its first Pennsylvania site near Claysville, and already is planning a major expansion in Western Pennsylvania, a company official said last week.

Jim Bullock, Huddle House's director of franchising, said the Decatur, Ga.-based chain of 435 restaurants sees the region as the next logical extension of success it has found in the West Virginia market.

He noted that the franchisee of the Claysville store has a unit in Moundsville.

"There's a lot of interest all over the Pennsylvania market, but we think the Pittsburgh market is prime for us," Bullock said, adding that he's already talked with several people who have expressed interest in franchising stores in Washington, Uniontown, Greensburg and Bethel Park.

While the Claysville store represents a retrofit of an existing building at the truck stop, Bullock said most Huddle House operations are built around the concept of a local diner, featuring chrome trim, checkerboard tile and bright-red, cushioned counter stool seating with diner booths. (Read More)