Cookie Plug — the ‘90s-inspired, hip-hop-centric confectionary concept boasting fresh-basked “phatties” daily — just announced its plan to open 50 new franchise locations throughout 2023.
As part of the proposal, the fast-growing brand will debut ten stores in Los Angeles, each under the helm of renowned franchise professional Kevin Davis.
Davis’ first stop? The USC campus where Cookie Plug will serve ooey-gooey goodness come October. Other LA stores listed on the company’s website as “coming soon” are located in Long Beach, Carson, Lakewood, West Covina, Santa Monica, Culver City, and Westwood.
Not only does Davis have 32 years of franchise-owning experience under his belt, but he’s also the largest Phenix Salon Suites franchisee to date with over 50 open locations across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Washington D.C., and California.
Despite Davis’ accumulating stake in the beauty sphere, his original ownership & development endeavors were in the food world, first working as a cook at Burger King when he was 17 before eventually opening nearly 200 fast-food restaurants including Dunkin Donuts, Papa John’s Pizza, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, and Subway. Suffice it to say, Davis knows a little bit about dough.
That said, What Now Los Angeles caught up with the incoming cookie connoisseur to talk about the massive undertaking. Here’s what he had to say:
WNLA: How and why did you land on Cookie Plug as a franchising opportunity?
KD: For me, franchising is personal. I only invest in brands I connect with. I have a strong affection for the ‘90s era — the music, the fashion, the art. I was drawn to Cookie Plug because I love how the company combines that era, graffiti, street art, and hip-hop culture to create a unique twist on cookies.
WNLA: Why Los Angeles?
KD: This brand is big on hip-hop culture and LA is a staple for many hip-hop artists and has influenced so much of our culture. I’m honored to begin in this city.
WNLA: What do you, as an owner, bring to the Cookie Plug brand?
KD: Outside of my 32 years of franchise experience, developing skills, and operational expertise, I have many relationships with some of the world’s most sought-after artists and definitely plan on having them sample a few of our flavors.
WNLA: What can guests expect from your stores?
KD: An amazing experience they won’t forget. We have something for every generation and every lover of the arts. For many who grew up on hip-hop, it will be nostalgic. For the guests who are hip-hop lovers — they’ll have a new home.
