Portland, Maine, U.S.A.-based Cousins Maine Lobster continues to expand across the U.S., hoping to reach 100 locations nationwide by the end of 2025.
The operator of both brick-and-mortar restaurants and food trucks recently opened a unit in Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S.A., marking its 85th unit, the company said. The Grand Rapids opening further extends its reach in the state of Michigan westward from Detroit.
Farther south, Cousins relaunched in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, through existing operators who are actively expanding across Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas, and the firm has also established two new trucks in Central Illinois, as well as new units in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Syracuse and Albany, New York; and West Virginia.
The next openings for the company will include its first units in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Minneapolis, Minnesota, followed by further expansion into Western Michigan with a new truck in Kalamazoo.
“These new trucks reflect the growing demand for the brand's premium, wild-caught Maine lobster served in approachable, fast-casual formats,” the company said.
The expansion will continue for Cousins with development agreements made with franchisees in California and Wisconsin, and existing operators have committed to additional units in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, New Mexico, and Arizona.
Cousins is actively seeking franchise partners in select territories throughout the Midwest, Southeast, and West, too.
"As we approach the 100-unit milestone, our mission remains the same – connecting people through memorable experiences and real Maine lobster," Cousins Co-Founder Sabin Lomac said. "We're focused on smart growth, innovative menu additions, and franchisee support to ensure long-term success.”
In addition to unit growth, menu innovation has been a key priority for Cousins, which introduced a new lobster roll this spring for the first time in the brand’s history. The Garlic Butter Lobster Roll features wild-caught Maine lobster coated in garlic butter and served on a toasted split-top roll. Cousins is also offering a limited-time Pink Lemonade Whoopie Pie as the summer progresses.
