From Fox News · Teresa Mull · · 1m
Friendly's chain shrinks to 87 locations
Friendly's restaurant chain, once 850 locations, now operates 87 stores across 11 states, with experts saying nostalgia could revive it.
In brief
Friendly's restaurant chain, once 850 locations, now operates 87 stores across 11 states, with experts saying nostalgia could revive it. Friendly's has 87 locations after cutting from 850, but a marketing expert says its nostalgic appeal and adaptability could help it thrive. Originally reported by Fox News.
Friendly's chain shrinks
Friendly's restaurant chain, once 850 locations, now operates 87 locations in 11 states.
Founded in 1935
Friendly's was founded in 1935 by brothers Prestley and Curtis Blake in Springfield, Massachusetts.
90th anniversary in 2025
Friendly's celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2025, decades after starting as a neighborhood ice cream shop.
Expert sees potential
Marketing professor Barbara E. Kahn says Friendly's has 'positive DNA' and 'a lot of life left' despite recent closures.
“Friendly's has 'positive DNA,' and there's 'a lot of life left' in the Friendly's brand.”
Nostalgia trend
Kahn notes Friendly's could leverage nostalgia while adapting to modern tastes and preferences.
What happens next
Friendly's may add non-meat items, healthy grains, and salads to attract new customers and revive its brand.
The takeaway
Friendly's has 87 locations after cutting from 850, but a marketing expert says its nostalgic appeal and adaptability could help it thrive.
