THE BRIDGES SET TO WELCOME NEW PRETZEL OUTLET

A FAST-growing food outlet is set to tie Sunderland in knots, with the arrival of a popular snack brand.

Pretzel company Auntie Anne’s is to open at the Bridges this week (6 September) part of the world’s largest hand-rolled soft pretzel franchise.

The new kiosk will offer a range of the company’s signature goods including baked pretzels and pretzel dogs – an original take on a sausage roll with a pretzel rather than pastry covering.

The Sunderland launch marks the 45th Auntie Anne’s to open in the UK and Ireland, as part of the company’s nationwide expansion plan.

And the Bridges’ launch will be marked with free pretzel giveaways between 11am and noon, along with a giant pretzel pulling ceremony.

Auntie Anne’s UK and Ireland’s Managing Director Max Burton, said the company was delighted to be coming to Sunderland.

"We’re so proud to be opening our 45th store at the Bridges Shopping Centre,” he said.

“Our growth is on track, and it’s fantastic to be sharing Auntie Anne’s pretzels with even more people as we work towards our ambitious goals for 2025 and beyond."

Karen Eve, Centre Director at the Bridges, believes Auntie Anne’s will be a welcome addition.

“A pretzel outlet is something completely new for Sunderland but we are sure they will be an absolute hit,” she said.

“We’re delighted that Auntie Anne’s have decided to open at the Bridges and we can’t wait for people to try them.”

Auntie Anne’s began 30 years ago in Pennsylvania, USA in a farmer’s market and now in an international brand, with 2000 locations across 26 countries.

The pretzels are mixed, twisted and baked freshly each day in front of shoppers.