bebe stores, inc., a multi-unit franchise operating group with Buddy’s Home Furnishings, has signed an agreement to re-franchise eight company-owned stores between Kentucky and Indiana, adding to the group’s existing footprint of 47 stores.
“We’re thrilled to build on our partnership with Buddy’s by adding eight new stores to our existing portfolio,” said Martin Fontela, Chief Operating Officer of bebe.
“Our team is also taking the necessary steps to set us up well for future growth with Buddy’s as we set our eyes on potential markets in North Carolina, Virginia and Florida.”
bebe partnered with Buddy’s in 2020 and has since franchised 47 stores across the country.
“I’ve personally witnessed tremendous progress within Buddy’s franchise program since joining the company more than five years ago,” said Fontela.
“Buddy’s fosters a team-minded mentality between the franchisee and franchisor, which is a culture you can’t find with most franchise opportunities. We’ve also greatly benefited from the company’s proven, turnkey formula for success that has been the crucial accelerant in scaling our operations.”
Buddy’s was founded in 1961 as Buddy’s Bi-Rite in Tampa, Florida. Since then, the company rebranded to Buddy’s Home Furnishings as it expanded its product line to include furniture, electronics, appliances and home accessories. The company’s business model allows customers to attain ownership of items through affordable payments without the constraints of traditional credit or financing.
“These eight company-owned stores are in great hands with the bebe team,” said Michael Bennett, CEO of Buddy’s.
“bebe continues to be a wonderful partner of ours, and we look forward to continuing to work together to bring an affordable way for customers to attain home necessities to communities across the country.”