UK dessert chain signs landmark agreement with Cornerstone Capital as it accelerates international franchise expansion
UK dessert franchise Creams Cafe has secured its first-ever franchise deal in the United States, marking a major milestone in the brand’s international growth strategy and opening the door to expansion in one of the world’s most competitive foodservice markets. The company has partnered with Cornerstone Capital to develop multiple locations across Arizona, with the first store scheduled to open in Scottsdale in early 2027.
The agreement will see Cornerstone Capital, led by franchise owner Jeni Jones, launch three Creams Cafe outlets over the next two years across the eastern Phoenix metropolitan area. Target development zones include Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert and San Tan Valley, positioning the British dessert brand within some of Arizona’s fastest growing and most affluent communities.
The deal represents Creams Cafe’s official entry into the U.S. market and is expected to serve as a launchpad for wider American expansion if the initial Arizona locations perform successfully. The first restaurant, planned for Scottsdale, will introduce U.S. consumers to Creams Cafe’s dessert-focused menu, which includes waffles, crepes, sundaes, gelato, shakes and other indulgent sweet treats that have helped the brand establish a strong footprint across the UK.
According to the announcement, Cornerstone Capital plans to develop the first three locations within a two-year period, reflecting confidence in the brand’s appeal and the growth potential of the Arizona market. The Phoenix metropolitan area has become an increasingly attractive destination for franchise investment, driven by strong population growth, rising disposable incomes and continued migration into the region from other parts of the United States.
The U.S. agreement follows Creams Cafe’s broader international expansion drive. Earlier this year, the company announced a master franchise agreement with Intercopper Co. to introduce the brand in Greece and Cyprus, highlighting its ambitions to build a global network through franchising. The Arizona deal therefore marks the next significant step in the company’s overseas growth strategy and strengthens its presence beyond its home market.
Arizona has emerged as a particularly active franchise growth market in recent years, attracting both domestic and international restaurant brands seeking expansion opportunities. The state’s rapidly expanding population, business-friendly environment and growing consumer base have made cities such as Scottsdale, Mesa and Tempe attractive destinations for food and beverage franchise concepts.
With the signing of its first U.S. franchise agreement, Creams Cafe joins a growing list of international foodservice brands targeting the American market through local franchise partnerships. For the company, the Arizona rollout represents not only a new territory but also a critical test of its ability to translate its successful UK dessert concept into the world’s largest restaurant and franchising market.
No financial details of the agreement were disclosed. The first Creams Cafe U.S. location is expected to welcome customers in Scottsdale in early 2027.
