Popular Fast-Casual Brand Grows Its Footprint in Kansas with a Second Wichita Location
Wichita diners have another reason to celebrate as Newk’s Eatery expands its footprint on the city’s west side. The fast-casual chain, famous for its fresh, scratch-made salads, sandwiches, soups, and pizzas, is continuing a strong 2026 growth trajectory. Following a big year of development milestones, the brand is opening a new 3,600-square-foot restaurant at 3905 N. Ridge Road, Suite 210, on Monday, Oct. 5.
This new spot marks another step forward in the brand’s mission to bring fresh ingredients, open-kitchen cooking, and signature hospitality to neighborhoods nationwide. Located in an up-and-coming area at 37th & Ridge Road, the restaurant strengthens Newk’s presence in Kansas as its second location in the state.
Franchisees Bring Experience to Newk’s Eatery
The local expansion is led by franchisees Melody Matulewic, her husband Doug, Scott Hatchett, and his wife Jenny. Scott has long owned several Wichita auto dealerships covering brands like Buick, GMC, Hyundai, and Genesis, where Melody serves as Marketing and Development director.
Neither had restaurant experience before discovering the brand at a location in Bentonville, Arkansas. They fell in love with the food, menu variety, and the opportunity to introduce the concept to Kansas. Leveraging their background with automotive franchises, they quickly recognized the value of the chain’s established systems and support network. This second restaurant opens just 10 months after their first location debuted on Wichita’s east side last December.
“We’ve had a great response to our first Wichita location, and we’re excited to bring Newk’s to the west side of town,” said Matulewic. “When we got into this business, we knew we wanted to open multiple restaurants in Wichita, so it’s exciting to see those plans moving forward. We’ve learned a lot from running our car dealerships, and the same principles apply here. It comes down to having the right people, following the right processes and running a profitable business.”
Giving Back and Systemwide Growth for Newk’s Eatery
The new location is also using its launch to give back to the community. Through a partnership with the Wichita Cancer Foundation, donations collected during a private event on Oct. 3 and throughout opening week from Oct. 5 to Oct. 10 will benefit the organization via Newk’s Cares x Lori’s Light. The brand’s charitable arm will match all contributions up to $2,000.
“Wichita has been a great example of the kind of momentum we’re seeing across the Newk’s system,” said Chris Elliott, CEO of Newk’s parent company FSC Franchise Co. “Melody and Scott have brought a strong operator mindset to the brand, and their decision to open a second location so quickly speaks to the opportunity they see in Wichita and their confidence in the Newk’s model. As we reach 100 locations, we’re excited to continue building on that momentum and bringing Newk’s to more communities through experienced franchise partners who share our commitment to quality, hospitality and long-term growth.”
This location adds to a fast-growing system that now features nearly 100 restaurants nationwide, recently earning the brand the No. 25 spot on the Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers list. As the chain expands, it’s seeking experienced operators to open additional locations across the country.
Interested operators can explore franchise opportunities at OwnANewks.com.
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