title: The Great American Bagel Bakery
text: # The Great American Bagel Bakery
  
  The Great American Bagel Bakery is a privately owned restaurant franchise started in 1987. The company is based in Westmont, Illinois. Currently, there are 52 locations in 12 states.
  
  ## History
  
  The Great American Bagel was established in 1987 by president Wayne Flately. The Great American Bagel started franchising in 1994 with the help of Pat Ross, retired founder and president of Rax Restaurants.
  
  