1919
500
$250,000
$15,000
$1,397,000
No
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.
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.
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.
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.
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%
