Baskin-Robbins has announced it will open 20 new stores in the next 12 months, three of which are scheduled to open by the end of the month. 

The move will see the Palm Oasis Ventures owned ice-cream chain increase its network of 78 stores by 25 percent, through a mixture of company-owned and franchised stores.

Baskin-Robbins will initially focus its attention on Queensland and Western Australia, and further expansion is planned for New South Wales and Victoria towards the end of the year.

“Our growth is the result of strong demand for our brand from potential franchise partners and retailers alike,” said Baskin-Robbins’ general manager, David Jordan.

He added site selection is proving a challenge, which is a reflection of the brand’s high standards.

“One of the challenges we currently face is sourcing enough quality sites. Although we have ambitious growth plans, our focus is on the long term and as such rigorous site selection is of upmost importance to ensure long term sustainability.”

Expansion strategy aside, Jordan and his management team have also recently refined Baskin-Robbins’ vision and strategy in collaboration with Palm Oasis Ventures and franchisees.

“This collaboration process included a series of strategic planning meetings with all franchise partners across the country to share not only our vision but their vision for Baskin-Robbins brand into the future.

“This has created great alignment, ownership and momentum toward implementing our collective strategy,” Jordan said.  

Baskin-Robbins currently sells over 560,000 ice cream scoops every month, a figure that is set to rise with the opening of additional stores.