Golden Corral® Signs Multi-Unit Agreement to Expand in Cincinnati

“Annette and I are delighted to continue our expansion and bring Golden Corral’s high-value buffet offerings to even more people throughout Southwestern Ohio and Northern Kentucky,” said Stickdorn. “Cincinnati has welcomed us with open arms, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve this incredible community. We look forward to creating even more memorable dining experiences and serving delicious home-style meals that the brand has a reputation for.”

Co-Founder and Co-CEO is Annette Payne, who first met Stickdorn in 2007 when he brought her on board to manage one of his Golden Corral locations. Their dynamic partnership flourished over the years, and in 2020, they took the momentous step to become business partners. Within three years, Stickdorn and Payne’s franchise ownership grew to nine Golden Corral locations throughout Ohio, Kentucky and Michigan.

“Jace and Annette’s steadfast commitment to making pleasurable dining affordable has been instrumental in shaping the outstanding hospitality that Golden Corral is renowned for in their restaurants. As they expand their franchise footprint in Cincinnati, I know that we can count on them to continue exceeding the expectations of their valued guests,” said Lance Trenary, President and CEO of Golden Corral Corporation. “Annette and Jace are leaders in innovation and were the first franchise group to pilot robots in their restaurants.

It is wonderful to see them continue their strong growth trajectory and build a lasting legacy within our Golden Corral family.”

Golden Corral has been serving customers since 1973 and has been offering an attractive franchise opportunity since 1986. Thanks to our strong value proposition and diverse franchise offering, the brand has grown to be the largest all-you-can-eat national buffet chain and is one of three buffets that have seen a 125% increase in foot traffic (1st quarter 2023 compared to January 2021), according to Placer.ai.

For entrepreneurs looking for a proven, family-oriented restaurant model, Golden Corral is not just a business opportunity – it’s a way of life. Ideal franchise candidates have previous restaurant operations experience, individually or with a partner, and a strong business acumen. At Golden Corral, you are never alone, as the team is there to provide you with proven systems and operations support to help you be successful and grow your business.

Golden Corral strives to make pleasurable dining affordable for all families. While its commitment begins each day with preparing delicious food, Golden Corral also believes in providing outstanding hospitality and giving back. Service to others is a hallmark of the Golden Corral brand.

In 2023, Golden Corral was recognized as one of the nation’s top 50 “Most Loved Brands” by Yelp. They were also recognized for valuing their customers and providing excellent customer service by Newsweek, "America's Best Customer Service 2024." Golden Corral restaurants nationwide have long been strong supporters of the U.

S. Military and DAV (Disabled American Veterans). Golden Corral is also the founding sponsor of Camp Corral, a 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation which provides free, one-of-a-kind summer camp experiences for children of wounded, injured, ill, or fallen service members.

Golden Corral is the largest National Buffet chain, offering delicious comfort food classics allowing guests to create their own unique and perfect plate.