Famous Brands International Signs Deal with Batt Enterprises to Grow Across Southeast

Famous Brands International, the parent company of iconic dessert brands Mrs. Fields and TCBY (The Country’s Best Yogurt), announced continued growth across the Southeast through an expanded development agreement with longtime franchisee and area developer Samuel Batt of Batt Enterprises. The agreement adds Georgia to Batt’s existing North Carolina and South Carolina territory, with plans to develop 15 new locations across the three states.

Batt currently operates 15 TCBY and two Mrs. Fields locations and is experiencing his strongest year in the history of his TCBY ownership, with year-to-date sales up double digits compared with the same period last year. His continued investment reflects strong performance and sustained customer demand for both brands, while the expanded territory provides an opportunity to introduce TCBY and Mrs. Fields to more communities throughout the Southeast.

As an area developer, Batt is building on the infrastructure he has established in the Greater Charlotte market with further expansion across North Carolina, including the Research Triangle region of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. His development strategy prioritizes suburban growth corridors, college-adjacent neighborhoods with experienced local operators to support long-term, sustainable growth.

Regional expansion plans

The agreement represents a significant next phase of Batt’s investments in the brands and builds on more than 16 years of experience as a TCBY franchisee. With Georgia now included in his territory, Batt plans to carry the momentum established in the Carolinas into new markets while applying his experience operating and developing both brands. As he continues this growth, Batt is working closely with Famous Brands to identify and support franchisees who share his commitment to TCBY and Mrs. Fields and are equally as dedicated to building strong, lasting operations.

“I’m proud to continue reinvesting in TCBY and Mrs. Fields,” said Samuel Batt, Franchise Owner. “These are iconic brands that generations of customers have known and loved for decades, and we continue to see that connection translate into strong performance today. Expanding across the Southeast gives us the opportunity to bring high-quality frozen yogurt and freshly baked treats to more communities throughout the region. I look forward to growing both brands and introducing them to even more families.”

A franchisee since 2010, Batt has played a pivotal role in the evolution of TCBY, including piloting the brand’s first self-serve concept for the brand in Charlotte, an initiative that helped inform its broader rollout. In addition to operating his own locations, Batt supports other franchisees throughout the region by providing operational guidance and development support. He also takes pride in giving back to the communities his stores serve, having donated six figures over the years to local schools, sports organizations, and nonprofits.

Brand offerings and growth

TCBY offers a broad selection of frozen yogurt flavors and treats designed to appeal to a range of tastes and dietary preferences. Its menu includes more than 50 soft-serve and 16 hand-scooped yogurt flavors, including low-fat, fat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan and no sugar added options. Guests can customize their orders with more than 35 toppings, including candy, fresh fruit, nuts and sauces. The menu at select locations also includes milkshakes, parfaits, sundaes, cakes, pies, chillers, sorbet fizz, and other frozen treats.

For more than four decades, Mrs. Fields has delighted customers with its signature cookies, cookie cakes, brownies, and gift offerings. As the brand continues to evolve, it remains a destination for freshly baked treats that combine nostalgia with everyday indulgences for customers across generations.

With franchise opportunities available in key U.S. markets—including Raleigh-Durham, NC; Charleston, SC; and Atlanta, GA—TCBY and Mrs. Fields are actively seeking experienced multi-unit operators.