Kilwins Will Expand With New Utah Locations
The confectioner plans to bring at least five stores to the state as part of a broader regional growth strategy.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Desserts
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Kilwins has announced plans to establish at least five new locations across Utah. The company intends to utilize both traditional store formats and its smaller Kilwins Select franchise model to enter the market.
Why it matters
Utah was selected for this expansion due to its growing population and retail environment. The smaller 600-square-foot footprint of the Kilwins Select model is designed to lower barriers for new franchisees.
The Kilwins Select model features a compact 600-square-foot footprint designed for a simplified build-out. The company, which was founded in 1947, currently operates approximately 200 locations nationwide.
The players
Kilwins
This confectionery chain was founded in 1947 and currently operates nearly 200 locations across the United States.
The details
Kilwins is actively seeking franchise partners in Utah to develop these new sites. The initiative follows similar expansion efforts that include 10 planned stores in Texas and more than 20 locations slated for Arizona.
Timeline
Kilwins was founded in 1947.
The company announced 10 new stores in Texas during the summer of 2025.
Plans for 20 locations in Arizona were announced in early 2026.
The five Utah store openings are scheduled for the next few years.
Culture Shift
This transition to small-format stores mirrors the industry-wide shift toward smaller-footprint retail franchise models. By reducing physical space, the company mirrors a trend where brands prioritize efficiency and reduced overhead costs.
Residents can anticipate the arrival of new confectionary options as the company rolls out these planned locations over the next few years. This expansion may create local employment opportunities and increase retail availability for consumers.
The takeaway
The move demonstrates a strategic focus on secondary markets that offer high growth potential. Franchisees interested in the brand will have access to a simplified model that focuses on curated product assortments.
Further reading
For more on local market updates, visit Utah Desserts.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chain Store Age.
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