Cousins Maine Lobster to Expand Its Fast-Casual Seafood Offering in Gainesville and Savannah

Cousins Maine Lobster (CML) is set to further its presence in the southern states of Florida and Georgia. The company recently signed an agreement with entrepreneurs Damon Cole and Mandy Ottesen to launch a new food truck in Gainesville and Savannah.

This food truck, which is due to debut in July 2025, will be the second CML-owned by the duo. Their first food truck was launched in Jacksonville, Florida, in November 2024. The new truck will serve premium lobster rolls and other Maine favorites, continuing the company's reputation for high-quality, authentic food.

Ottesen and Cole's passion for high-quality food and community-focused business has driven their involvement with CML. Cole, a former marine engineer, was inspired by his father's work on the East Coast and has a particular passion for authentic Maine lobster. Ottesen, an entrepreneur with 15 years of experience running a successful lice removal franchise, brings her sharp business acumen and dedication to local service to the venture.

Cousins Maine Lobster is one of the fastest-growing seafood concepts in the U.S. and aims to open 30 units this year, with plans to become a 100-unit brand by the end of 2025. In 2024, the company executed more than 30 development agreements with franchisees and pursued company-led expansion in Kansas City and Louisville. The average CML franchisee owns six units, drives a food truck AUV of $1.3 million, and has been launching additional units based on multi-year growth plans.