News Summary
A&W Restaurants is targeting entrepreneurs in Columbia and surrounding areas to expand its franchise network. The initiative leverages Columbia’s growing economy and aims to open multiple outlets, creating significant job opportunities. With a focus on community engagement, A&W offers support to franchise partners, reflecting its commitment to sustainable growth and local connections.
Columbia, South Carolina – A&W Restaurants is actively seeking franchise partners in Columbia and nearby cities, such as Darlington, as part of its strategy to expand its presence in the region. The historic quick-service restaurant chain is targeting local entrepreneurs, providing an opportunity to partner with a brand that boasts over a century of heritage.
The initiative comes at a time when Columbia is experiencing strong economic performance, as evidenced by notable GDP growth and increasing demand for housing, retail, and dining options. This growth creates a supportive environment for businesses like A&W that cater to a developing customer base.
A&W’s expansion plans include opening territories for both single and multi-unit franchise development. Each new location has the potential to create approximately 100 jobs, contributing positively to the local economy. The chain intends to open three new outlets in South Carolina in the coming years, further enhancing its footprint in the state.
Columbia marks a significant opportunity for A&W, as the company has recently launched its South Carolina presence with a new franchise in Rock Hill in 2023. The first A&W location in Darlington is slated to open on June 4, 2025, reflecting the company’s commitment to establishing a deeper connection with communities in the area.
A&W has over 850 locations globally and is looking for community-minded franchise partners who are interested in managing serving classic all-American food while creating a hometown experience for customers. To be considered for a franchise, interested candidates must meet a minimum requirement of $300,000 in liquid assets and a total net worth of $700,000.
The support provided to franchisees includes the backing of A&W’s family-oriented brand, which focuses on nurturing partnerships that can result in flourishing businesses for future generations. CEO Betsy Schmandt has remarked on the company’s aim to integrate within local communities, underlining its dedication to assisting franchise owners in building lasting enterprises.
A&W Restaurants has been proactive in expanding its U.S. franchise network. In February 2024, the company added four new franchise locations across the country, signaling a robust growth strategy amidst positive market conditions. The brand’s franchise model is not just about rapid expansion; it emphasizes sustainable development and lasting community relationships.
Overall, A&W’s expansion into Columbia, South Carolina, represents an exciting opportunity for local entrepreneurs to join a time-honored brand while contributing to the growing economic landscape of the region. Through its community engagement strategy and proven business model, A&W aims to create a significant and positive impact on both franchise owners and customers alike.
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
