When did Five Guys decide to franchise in Virginia and Maryland?

Five Guys made the strategic decision to begin franchising in Virginia and Maryland in 2002. This marked a significant step in the company’s growth, allowing it to expand beyond its original locations and reach a broader audience. The decision to franchise was pivotal in establishing the brand's presence in the fast-casual dining market, enabling it to grow rapidly and effectively. By choosing to franchise, Five Guys was able to leverage local operators’ knowledge and investment, which facilitated quicker growth and adaptation to local markets. As a result, this expansion strategy contributed to Five Guys becoming a household name, known for its burgers and fries, leading to a substantial increase in its number of locations over the years.