Nashville-based fast seafood specialist Captain D's inked franchise development agreements to expand the brand’s presence in Illinois, Texas, Virginia, North Carolina and Kentucky, for a total of 18 new locations. According to the company, the surge in franchise development is propelled by the brand's success, including six consecutive years of same-store sales increases and four successive years of record high system-wide average unit volumes.

Captain D's owns and franchises 518 restaurants in 21 states, plus military bases, and is aiming for a national footprint. “The strength of our franchising pipeline will help drive Captain D’s presence nationwide over the next several years and accelerate our momentum," chief development officer Michael Arrowsmith said.

The company has been busy diversifying its menu and redesigning its restaurants. So far, nearly 60% of its restaurants have been redesigned to the brand’s new "coastal design," which aims to evoke a seaside destination. Another 50 locations will be remodeled by the end of this year.