Established
1919
Franchise Units
500
Minimum Investment
$250,000
Franchise Fee
$15,000
Total Investment Range
$1,397,000
Home Based
No
Description
A&W Restaurants is one of America's oldest and most iconic fast-food chains, known for its legendary root beer, all-American menu, and nostalgic dining experience. With a rich heritage and strong brand loyalty, A&W offers franchisees the opportunity to operate a restaurant that blends tradition with modern operational strategies. From drive-thru units to standalone buildings and co-branded models, A&W presents flexible formats for a variety of market types.
Background
Founded in 1919, A&W Restaurants started as a root beer stand in Lodi, California, and has grown into a nationwide chain recognized for its root beer floats, burgers, hot dogs, and hand-breaded chicken tenders. Today, A&W is 100% franchisee-owned, making it one of the rare legacy QSR brands controlled by its franchisees. This structure fosters collaboration and franchisee-first decision-making, driving brand growth and innovation.
Support Training
A&W offers robust support and comprehensive training for new and existing franchisees, including:
-
Initial training program at A&W University (Lexington, KY)
-
On-site opening support and ongoing field operations assistance
-
Marketing support, national advertising, and local store marketing resources
-
Site selection, architectural planning, and construction guidance
-
Purchasing and supply chain support to streamline operations
Franchisees are supported from pre-opening through the lifetime of their business.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal A&W franchisee is:
-
Passionate about food service and community engagement
-
Financially capable of meeting investment requirements
-
Motivated to operate multiple units (optional but encouraged)
-
Committed to delivering high-quality service and brand integrity
-
Experienced in QSR or restaurant operations (not mandatory but preferred)
A&W welcomes both single-unit operators and multi-unit developers who align with its values of quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction.
Financial Detail
Total Investment Range: $276,000 – $1,397,000
(Depends on type: inline, freestanding, gas/convenience co-brand, etc.)-
Minimum Liquid Capital Required: $250,000
-
Net Worth Required: $500,000
-
Franchise Fee: $15,000 – $30,000
(Varies by location and format) -
Royalty Fee: 5%
-
Advertising Fee: 5%