Nov. 5, 2009 (Business Wire) -- Despite the economic downturn, Corner Bakery Cafe’s strategic franchise development program continues to prove successful, as the national bakery cafe brand announced a partnership with S&B Development, Inc. today to open 11 franchise-operated locations in San Diego, Calif. by 2016.

“With 32 years of restaurant industry experience, including my time as a Panera Bread franchisee, I had the opportunity to study, in depth, both the fast-casual bakery cafe segment and Corner Bakery Cafe itself,” says Steven Fricker, partner in S&B Development, Inc. “I’ve always admired the brand for its appeal across all meal-times, serving guests breakfast, lunch, dinner & dessert options as well as its nationally recognized catering program. I’m excited to be part of a brand that, even in today’s economy, continues to expand, and with San Diego in mind specifically, I believe there is significant growth opportunity.”

“In a time when many brands are challenged to find franchise partners and available financing, we are especially pleased to expand our franchise presence with restaurant veterans like Steve Fricker, one of the most respected leaders in our industry,” said Mike Hislop, Corner Bakery Cafe CEO. “We’ve seen a lot of success with our current San Diego locations, and with the leadership of Steve and his partner, Bob Carson, we’re excited to extend our signature menu offerings to an even-larger San Diego base.”

In addition to Fricker’s experience in the bakery cafe industry, he previously served as an Outback Steakhouse senior executive and was a founding partner in the California franchisee for Outback. He started his industry career with fast food chain, Jack in the Box, where he served in various senior management positions over a 15-year period. He has developed over 100 restaurants within the California markets, and is the immediate past chairman of the board of the California Restaurant Association and was recognized with his Outback Steakhouse partner as Operator of the Year in 2002 by the California Restaurant Association’s Education Foundation. Working alongside Fricker is his business partner, Bob Carson. Carson has 35 years of experience in shopping center development and is eager to bring his business sophistication and knowledge of the San Diego real estate market to the Corner Bakery Cafe expansion initiative.

Known for its innovative menu featuring a wide variety of made-to-order egg scramblers and oatmeals for breakfast, flavorful sandwiches, savory panini, hot soups and signature salads for lunch and dinner, fresh baked goods for dessert and an extensive catering menu, Corner Bakery Cafe has been delighting guests nationwide with fresh, handcrafted selections in a welcoming and cozy atmosphere for over 18 years.