Is A&W Restaurants A Franchise?

Discover the A&W Opportunity—America’s Original Franchise

In the ever-evolving world of dining, not all stories are created equal. There’s a tale that’s been simmering for over a century, one that’s etched in the heart of American culinary history. It’s the story of A&W, a tale that might surprise many. While plenty of people know and love our famous Root Beer, which is consistently ranked as the best root beer on the market—take this ranking from Mashed, for example—we do see some folks asking “Is A&W Restaurants a franchise?”

Yes, we are a franchise, and our journey into the world of franchising began all the way back in 1926. Let’s peek behind the curtain and explore why franchising with A&W is an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to be part of a brand that’s been a fan favorite for generations.

A&W: A Hidden Franchising Gem

When you think of A&W, what comes to mind? Frosty mugs of Root Beer, stacked burgers, and the feeling of nostalgia, perhaps. But what many don’t realize is that we are more than merely a beloved dining experience. We are a franchise, deeply rooted in the tradition of offering exceptional food and creating cherished memories.

Our franchising legacy started in 1926, a time when the concept of franchising was still finding its footing. As pioneers in the industry, we embarked on a journey that would forever change the landscape of dining. Today, we stand tall as America’s original franchise, with a legacy that spans generations. It’s a story that’s often hidden behind the aroma of sizzling burgers and the fizz of freshly made Root Beer, waiting to be discovered by aspiring entrepreneurs.

Why Choose A&W Franchising?

Entrepreneurs, take note. The opportunity to franchise with A&W is a chance to embrace a proven track record, a journey that started over a century ago. Our heritage has a long and heartwarming history. It’s a testament to our resilience and adaptability, a trait that defines any enduring brand.

“When we look at changing up restaurant design, when we look at doing packaging redesign, when we look at designing uniforms, anything like that, one of the first places we turn is to our own history, and we’ve got a ton to look back on — over 100 years worth,” says Liz Bazner, Senior Director of Marketing for A&W. “We really have taken a lot of those elements too: for example, the really clear hand-painted letters from the old cinder block root beer stands. We’ve incorporated that history into a lot of what we do today, because it’s still relevant, and it really resonates with people. And we don’t have to manufacture our own history. This is something real that we can look back on and pull from ourselves.”

By joining the A&W franchise family, you step into a realm where our legacy as a catalyst for happy memories is ready to guide your entrepreneurial dreams. With us, it’s about more than simply starting a restaurant. It’s about becoming a part of a story built on quality, community, and commitment. Our Support Center team goes beyond providing a support system. We’re your partners in this journey, with a wealth of experience to back you up.

A&W’s Untapped Opportunity for Entrepreneurs

We understand that the road to your business goals is paved with challenges, but with A&W, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our Support Center is ready to guide franchisees through every step of the way. Whether it’s our comprehensive training, ongoing operational support, or access to valuable insights, we’ve got your back. As part of our family, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded franchisees, a community of support as diverse as it is united.

But what truly sets A&W apart is our commitment to your voice. Our franchisees’ perspectives are not only acknowledged, they are integral to every business decision. As a franchisee, you’re not just running a restaurant — you’re shaping the future of a brand that’s been a cornerstone of American dining culture.

Embark on a Journey of Discovery

If you’re an entrepreneur with a vision, if you’re ready to embrace a legacy of true staying power, then the A&W franchise opportunity is your ticket to an untapped realm of possibilities. We invite you to explore the rich history of A&W franchising, to peel back the layers of our proven business model, and to envision yourself as a part of this iconic journey.

Want to dive deeper? Our research pages here are a treasure trove of information, a place where you can uncover the intricacies of what it means to be an A&W franchisee. If you’re hungry for a future that’s flavored with tradition and innovation, filling out our inquiry form here is your first step towards an exciting and fulfilling franchise partnership.

Join us as we continue to create memories, serve exceptional food, and build a legacy that resonates across generations. The journey begins here, with a brand that’s been sizzling, fizzing, and savoring our guests’ smiles since 1926.