Wetzel’s Pretzels and Cold Stone to Open Co-Branded Store in the Bronx

Wetzel’s Pretzels and Cold Stone to Open Co-Branded Store in the Bronx

Wed, July 29, 2026 at 7:57 PM GMT+3 2 min read

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Wetzel's Pretzels (Wetzel's), the iconic brand known for its fresh, hand-rolled pretzels, is teaming up with Cold Stone Creamery to expand its footprint in the Bronx through strategic co-branded locations. The new co-branded store will be located at 1957 Turnbull Ave, will serve guests throughout the borough.

The new store signifies the Khala Brand portfolio's continued expansion into high-traffic environments, highlighting a broader opportunity for a model that brings multiple brands under one roof. Arshad Khwaja, a veteran operator, will spearhead the co-brand Bronx location. Khawaja has been with Cold Stone Creamery for over a decade and currently operates seven locations across New York and Maryland. He plans to continue development with additional stores in the pipeline as he grows his portfolio.

"Being able to open my first co-brand location is a great next step in my career, and I'm looking forward to continuing to serve the Bronx community," said Khwaja. "One of the main reasons I wanted to pursue the co-brand model is that it gives guests more variety options at the location. I can't wait to see everyone being able to enjoy sweet and salty treats under one roof."

The co-brand model provides flexibility for Wetzel's Pretzels and Cold Stone Creamery franchisees, featuring an adaptable buildout design that integrates seamlessly into a variety of footprints. As Wetzel's continues to expand in non-traditional spaces, its store-within-a-store format pairs naturally with Cold Stone Creamery to maximize efficiency and enhance guest experience. The combination also strengthens daypart performance, appealing to both snack-driven and dessert-focused occasions. Together, the brand offers franchisees a proven system, advanced operations, and dedicated leadership guidance, empowering operations to scale effectively and achieve long-term business growth.

"We're thrilled to bring a co-brand location to the Bronx, and work alongside Arshad's expertise as we continue to grow on the East Coast," said Eric Weigel, Brand Leader of Wetzel's Pretzels. "The co-brand model offers an impactful and efficient opportunity for our franchisees by bringing both brands under one roof. We're looking forward to supporting Arshad and continue expanding co-brand locations nationwide."

Wetzel's has been sharing its signature handheld happiness ever since its founding in Pasadena, California, in 1994. The brand continues to attract a cult-like following in communities across North America through its cool SoCal feel and crave-worthy snacks that cultivate special moments of pure pretzel bliss between friends, family, and colleagues.

For additional information about Wetzel's franchise opportunities, visit https://www.wetzelsfranchising.com.

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