Why Franchisees Continue to Invest in HoneyBaked Ham
When evaluating a franchise opportunity, one of the strongest indicators of a brand’s long-term potential isn’t what the corporate team says—it’s what franchisees do.
Why do franchisees continue to invest in the HoneyBaked Ham franchise? The answer comes down to three things: a proven franchise model, multiple revenue streams, and a franchise system built on more than 65 years of brand equity. Existing operators are expanding their portfolios, and new franchisees continue entering the system because they see long-term potential in a differentiated specialty food concept.
At The Honey Baked Ham Company®, we’re seeing both trends play out across the country.
Why Existing Franchisees Reinvest in the HoneyBaked Ham Franchise
One of the clearest indicators of a healthy franchise system is when current operators choose to open additional locations. Existing franchisees already understand the day-to-day realities of the business, making their decision to reinvest a powerful endorsement of the franchise model.
Recently, franchisees Jayson and Kristen Henderson signed an agreement to bring a new HoneyBaked Ham franchise location to Owensboro, Kentucky. The Hendersons have been part of the HoneyBaked franchise system since 2022 and currently operate a location in Somerset, Kentucky. Their decision to expand into a second market reflects both their confidence in the brand and their belief in the opportunity to continue growing within the system.
Another example is Matt Davis, HoneyBaked’s largest franchisee. What began as a college job has grown into ownership of 23 HoneyBaked locations over more than three decades with the brand. His continued investment and expansion demonstrate how operators can scale within the HoneyBaked franchise system through disciplined operations and a long-term approach to growth.
For prospective franchisees, expansion agreements like this demonstrate the scalability of the HoneyBaked franchise model and the ability for operators to grow their businesses over time.
Why New Operators Are Joining the HoneyBaked Franchise System
At the same time, the HoneyBaked Ham franchise system continues to attract entrepreneurs who recognize the value of joining an established brand with more than 65 years of proven growth.
This year, HoneyBaked Ham welcomed new franchisees Tony Vennie and Leslie David Baker, who are opening a location in Sherman Oaks, California. Both operators bring diverse professional backgrounds and a strong connection to their local community, making them well-positioned to introduce the HoneyBaked experience to new customers throughout the San Fernando Valley.
Their decision to invest in HoneyBaked Ham reflects the appeal of a franchise opportunity built around a trusted brand, multiple revenue streams, and a proven operating model.
How the HoneyBaked Franchise Model Supports Long-Term Growth
Whether operators are opening their first HoneyBaked location or expanding to additional markets, several factors continue to drive interest in the brand.
The HoneyBaked franchise model includes four diversified revenue streams:
- Retail meals
- Lunch service
- Catering
- Gifting
This diversified approach creates multiple opportunities to engage customers throughout the year and helps differentiate HoneyBaked from traditional restaurant concepts that rely heavily on a single traffic driver.
Combined with strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base built over decades, franchisees benefit from a business that extends beyond traditional restaurant traffic patterns. The brand’s continued investment in menu innovation, digital ordering, and strategic market development further strengthens the franchise system and positions operators for long-term growth.
Interested in learning more? Explore the HoneyBaked Ham franchise opportunity and discover available territories today.
Frequently Asked Questions About the HoneyBaked Ham Franchise
Why do franchisees continue to invest in the HoneyBaked Ham franchise?
Existing franchisees often reinvest because they understand the brand’s operating model, customer demand, and long-term potential. Continued expansion from current operators can signal confidence in the franchise system and its ability to support future growth.
What makes the HoneyBaked Ham franchise model different from traditional restaurant concepts?
The HoneyBaked franchise model combines four revenue streams—retail, lunch, catering, and gifting—allowing franchisees to serve customers across multiple occasions throughout the year. The model also benefits from more than 65 years of brand recognition and consumer trust.
Is the HoneyBaked Ham franchise a good fit for multi-unit operators?
Many experienced operators are drawn to HoneyBaked because of its established franchise system, multiple revenue streams, and opportunities for market expansion. Existing franchisees, including some of the brand’s largest operators, continue to grow their portfolios within the system.
How does HoneyBaked generate demand beyond the holiday season?
While HoneyBaked is known for its holiday traditions, franchisees also benefit from year-round demand through lunch service, catering, gifting programs, and everyday meal solutions.
What does franchisee reinvestment say about a franchise system?
When existing franchisees choose to open additional locations, it often reflects confidence in the brand’s operating model, support systems, and future growth potential. Reinvestment can be one of the strongest indicators of franchise system health.
