LONDON — World Franchise Associates, an international franchise development consultancy, marketing and media company, has reached an agreement to represent Dillon, Mont.-based Great Harvest Bakery as the latter explores growth opportunities in Europe, Scandinavia, United Kingdom, Japan and Canada.

Founded in 1976, Great Harvest operates more than 200 locations across the United States, all of which offer breakfasts, sandwiches, grain bowls, soups, salads, pastries and desserts. In 2017, the company introduced a “hub-and-spoke” franchise model, which allowed for rapid expansion across the United States.

Under the hub-and-spoke franchise model, franchisees can purchase a large territory that includes a single Great Harvest Bakery operation and as many cafe-only units as they want in surrounding towns. The bakery locations are equipped with ovens and ample space to produce and deliver the hand-milled bread to the nearby cafe-only locations throughout the day.

Great Harvest said the hub-and-spoke model allows its franchisee owners to own multiple locations under one agreement, while competing against segment rivals in all territories.

Now, Great Harvest is turning to a global franchising group to expand its franchise portfolio outside the United States.

“Great Harvest is an exceptional brand for investors,” said Paul Cairnie, chief executive officer of World Franchise Associates. “Everything is made fresh, on site and locally — nothing frozen or packaged. The brand’s freedom franchise model allows for flexibility for success, including menu, pricing, local decor/design. And the brand’s partnership with Artisan Italian Coffee Roaster Caffe D’arte, offers a superior full line coffee and espresso program.”