Auntie Anne’s is accelerating its Australian expansion, focusing on high-traffic transport hubs and entertainment venues. Its first local branch opened at Westfield Parramatta, which connects to Sydney’s fourth busiest train station. A second outlet is set to open in the Queen Victoria Building near Town Hall Station.
The brand suits busy urban areas due to its appeal to on-the-go consumers, said Yu-Jin Lee, principal director at Jay United Holdings, Auntie Anne’s master franchisee in Australia.
Earlier this year, GoTo Foods—Auntie Anne’s parent company—outlined a global strategy to introduce compact urban formats to nontraditional venues like airports and travel plazas.
Lee noted Australia’s strong sporting culture as another opportunity. “We want to cater a product for events and sports arenas—it’s ideal for that market,” he said.
Steven Yang, senior vice president and APAC managing director at GoTo Foods, added that Australia has long been viewed as a key growth market. Other GoTo brands, including Cinnabon and Jamba, already operate in the region through separate partners.
Lee also sees demand for a savoury snack brand that isn’t centered around sweetness or fried chicken—two dominant themes in Australia.
Founded in 1988 in a Pennsylvania farmers market, Auntie Anne’s is known for hand-rolled, freshly baked pretzels. Its Australian menu features classics like pretzels, pretzel dogs, and nuggets.
“We’re already collecting feedback and assessing local preferences,” said Yang. “Expect seasonal items, regional twists, and possible collaborations that resonate locally while staying true to our brand.”
Auntie Anne’s plans to open five locations across Australia in the next 12 months.
