Myrtle Beach, February 12, 2026
Shake Shack is set to expand its operations in South Carolina, which is expected to boost the local economy significantly. The state’s favorable business environment and legislative support for reducing regulatory burdens make it an appealing location for investment. The expansion will deliver job opportunities and stimulate further economic growth, particularly in Myrtle Beach, aligning with the state’s entrepreneurial spirit and robust economic performance.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What is Shake Shack doing in South Carolina?
Expanding its presence, with at least one new location confirmed for South Carolina in 2025, as part of a larger plan to open 80-85 new units systemwide.
How is South Carolina’s economy currently performing?
Experiencing significant growth, with its real GDP growing at an annualized rate of 3.4 percent in Q2 2025 and leading the nation in GDP growth during Q1 2025.
What economic impact does the restaurant industry have in South Carolina?
Contributes substantially, projected to directly generate $24.81 billion in output and support over 251,803 jobs in 2025 for the state’s economy.
What is Shake Shack’s approach to community engagement?
Operates under its “STAND FOR SOMETHING GOOD®” philosophy, which includes supporting local communities through donations, events, volunteering, and partnering with local artists and purveyors.
What is South Carolina doing to support businesses?
Fostering a favorable business environment by demonstrating strong economic growth and proposing legislative efforts like the Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act to reduce regulatory burdens.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Shake Shack Expansion: A Boost for South Carolina’s Economy
Shake Shack, the popular “roadside” burger stand, is expanding its presence in South Carolina, a move anticipated to deliver a significant economic boost to the state. This expansion aligns with South Carolina’s robust economic growth and entrepreneurial spirit, signaling new opportunities for job creation and local investment.
South Carolina’s economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, with a strong focus on fostering a favorable business environment. The state’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew at an annualized rate of 3.4 percent in the second quarter of 2025, a substantial improvement from the first quarter’s 0.3 percent. This growth outpaced several neighboring states, including Florida, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. Furthermore, South Carolina led the nation in GDP growth for the first quarter of 2025, recording a 1.7 percent increase while the national average saw a decline. This positive economic climate, coupled with legislative efforts to reduce regulatory burdens, creates an attractive landscape for businesses like Shake Shack seeking new markets. The proposed Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act, aiming to reduce regulatory requirements by 25 percent and implement automatic expiration dates for unnecessary regulations, seeks to further enhance the state’s business climate.
Local entrepreneurs in Myrtle Beach are actively driving innovation and adapting to market demands, contributing to the area’s economic growth. The Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation (MBREDC) is dedicated to attracting, growing, and retaining businesses that create jobs, highlighting the region’s increasing profile as a prime business location.
Shake Shack’s Strategic Expansion in 2025
Shake Shack plans a significant expansion in 2025, with projections to open between 80 and 85 new units systemwide, including approximately 45 company-operated restaurants. This expansion is part of a long-term goal to reach at least 1,500 locations across the U.S. While specific locations in Myrtle Beach have not been detailed, South Carolina is confirmed for at least one new location in 2025. The company’s strategy emphasizes growth in underpenetrated suburban markets, often including drive-thru options, aiming to build community and cater to daily routines.
The “STAND FOR SOMETHING GOOD®” Philosophy
Shake Shack operates under a mission called “STAND FOR SOMETHING GOOD®.” This philosophy extends beyond serving food to include team welfare, sourcing premium ingredients from like-minded partners, designing restaurants responsibly, and actively supporting local communities through donations, events, and volunteering. This commitment to community integration means that each new Shack often reflects the local neighborhood, partnering with local artists and purveyors, and hosting fundraisers for local non-profits.
Economic Impact on South Carolina
The restaurant industry is a vital component of South Carolina’s economy. In 2025, eating and drinking establishments are projected to directly contribute $24.81 billion to the state’s economy, supporting over 251,803 jobs, and generating $7.58 billion in labor income. When considering indirect and induced impacts, the industry’s total economic contribution rises to $40.04 billion in output, supporting 325,135 jobs, and $11.97 billion in labor income. This sector also generates substantial public revenue, with direct contributions projected at $3.57 billion in taxes to various levels of government in 2025. The expansion of a well-established chain like Shake Shack, with its focus on quality and community engagement, can further contribute to these economic figures through job creation, supply chain engagement, and increased tax revenue.
Navigating the Landscape of National Chains and Local Business
The introduction of national chains like Shake Shack can bring both benefits and considerations for local economies. While chains may stimulate economic activity through direct spending and job creation, studies suggest that money spent at locally owned independent businesses tends to recirculate more within the community. However, chains that are structured as franchises or cooperatives with local ownership components tend to spend more in the local economy. Shake Shack’s emphasis on community engagement and local partnerships through its “STAND FOR SOMETHING GOOD®” mission indicates a model that aims to integrate with and contribute to the local fabric.
South Carolina’s Favorable Business Climate
South Carolina continues to present an appealing environment for businesses. The state’s economic growth is projected to expand in 2025, with steady growth across most industries, even while managing inflationary pressures. Wage growth has begun to outpace inflation, suggesting a potential for consumers to regain purchasing power. The service sector, including restaurants and tourism, is poised for increased spending. Efforts to streamline regulatory processes, such as the Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act (H. 3021), aim to reduce administrative burdens on businesses, promoting innovation and job creation.
Key Features of Shake Shack’s Expansion and South Carolina’s Economy
The table below summarizes key aspects of Shake Shack’s expansion and the supportive economic environment in South Carolina.
| Feature | Details | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Shake Shack Expansion Goal (2025) | 80-85 new units systemwide, including ~45 company-operated restaurants. Long-term goal of 1,500+ locations. | Nationwide |
| Shake Shack South Carolina Expansion (2025) | At least one new location confirmed. Specific Myrtle Beach location details not yet announced. | State-level |
| South Carolina Real GDP Growth (Q2 2025) | 3.4% annualized rate. | State-level |
| South Carolina Real GDP Growth (Q1 2025) | 1.7% annualized rate, led the nation. | State-level |
| South Carolina Restaurant Industry Direct Economic Output (2025 Projection) | $24.81 billion. | State-level |
| South Carolina Restaurant Industry Direct Job Support (2025 Projection) | 251,803 jobs. | State-level |
| Shake Shack Mission | “STAND FOR SOMETHING GOOD®” (team care, premium ingredients, responsible design, community support). | Nationwide |
| Myrtle Beach Entrepreneurial Focus | Innovation, adapting to market demands, technology startups, co-working spaces. | Local |
| Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act (H. 3021) | Aims to reduce regulations by 25% and create sunset provisions. | State-level |
Conclusion
Myrtle Beach and the wider South Carolina region are experiencing dynamic economic growth, characterized by entrepreneurial innovation and a supportive policy environment aiming to reduce regulatory burdens. The expansion of businesses like Shake Shack into the state reflects confidence in South Carolina’s economic trajectory and its growing population. While offering new dining options and job opportunities, Shake Shack’s community-focused philosophy can also contribute positively to the local ecosystem. As South Carolina entrepreneurs continue to drive growth, a balanced approach that welcomes private investment while nurturing local businesses and streamlining regulations will be key to sustaining the state’s positive economic momentum and ensuring a prosperous future for all. Supporting a diverse range of businesses, from burgeoning local startups to established national brands that embrace community values, will strengthen our local economy. Readers are encouraged to stay engaged with local business news and continue supporting the innovative spirit that defines the Myrtle Beach small business landscape.
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Shake Shack Expands in South Carolina: Economic Boost Ahead
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.
