LA MADELEINE SIGNS DEAL TO BRING 3 NEW CAFES TO HOUSTON AND COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS
Veteran multi-unit franchise operator spearheads expansion efforts; franchise opportunities remain available throughout the U.S.
DALLAS, June 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- French-inspired bakery and café la Madeleine has signed an agreement with SM Franchise LLC to develop three new locations in Houston and College Station, Texas, over the next two years.
SM Franchise LLC is owned and operated by Sultan Mahmood, a seasoned multi-unit operator with nearly 25 years of experience in restaurant franchising. He started in the industry with Denny's in 2003, building his portfolio to six Texas locations and developing a team of more than 200 employees.
"I wanted to expand my portfolio with la Madeleine because I'm inspired by how the brand blends French tradition with American tastes in such a creative and inviting way. It's not just about culinary excellence — it's about innovation and the meaningful connection la Madeleine has built with its guests," said Mahmood. "La Madeleine offers a cozy blend of charm and comfort, warm hospitality and high-quality, handcrafted meals to create something truly special in the fast-casual space."
He plans to open his first la Madeleine location by the end of 2025 in College Station, followed by an additional cafe in College Station and one in the Houston DMA in 2026.
"Our unit economics, unique positioning and proven systems have been successful in attracting restaurateurs who bring significant experience to the la Madeleine brand, while also providing current franchisees with opportunities for expansion," said John Dillon, la Madeleine CEO. "With several initiatives underway to strengthen our brand and position the company for long-term success, this is an ideal time for growth-oriented, multi-unit operators to join our franchise system."
La Madeleine is currently seeking franchisees with restaurant industry experience to expand the brand's presence throughout the United States. To learn more about franchising with la Madeleine, go to www.lamadeleine.com/franchise.
About la Madeleine
Since 1983, la Madeleine has delivered an accessible, welcoming bakery and café experience made for comfort and connection. The café's menu includes all-day breakfast, brunch, soups, salads, sandwiches, pastas, coffees and entrées — plus a traditional French bakery display featuring fresh bread and pastries. La Madeleine operates nearly 100 corporate and franchise locations in multiple U.S. states and one international café. Learn more about la Madeleine and franchise opportunities at lamadeleine.com.
About Groupe Le Duff
The world leader in bakery, pastry and catering, Groupe Le Duff is present in more than 100 countries and on five continents. Since it was established in 1976, Groupe Le Duff has achieved success through its restaurant chains (Brioche Dorée, Del Arte, Le Fournil de Pierre, la Madeleine [United States] and Kamps [Germany]), as well as its brands Bridor and Cité Gourmande (10 production sites), which manufacture premium quality products for more than 45,000 four- and five-star hotel restaurants.
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SOURCE la Madeleine