San Antonio-based Whataburger has announced major expansion plans and a new design for restaurants.
The company now operates in ten states. It plans to add 15 new restaurants this year and 25 next year. It also has plans to remodel many existing locations.
“We’re always excited to hear we have so many fans across the country, and we are looking to open restaurants in Tennessee, Kansas City and our existing markets as part of future expansion plans,” said James Turcotte, senior vice president, real estate.
“We don’t have specific details to share about plans for any particular city at this time but will be happy to share when the time is right,” he said.
Whataburger also will begin franchising restaurants for the first time in almost 20 years.
Company officials say that will allow them to open more restaurants in more areas – more quickly and efficiently.
The new look for restaurants is intended to better serve guests and increase guest capacity.
Whataburger says their restaurants are striving to be more environmentally-friendly by using renewable resources when possible, LED lighting and more efficient equipment for 24-hour use.
Company officials say the remodels will vary based on the needs of each location, ranging from kitchen and exterior upgrades in some restaurants to major updates in others.
Whataburger reports the remodel will honor building elements Texans are accustomed to.
“There are a lot of things our customers hold sacred about Whataburger, including the iconic A-frame, orange and white stripes and the strong link to our history,” Turcotte said.
“Whataburger’s new restaurant designs and remodels will stay true to our unique look, just in an updated and fresh way,” he added.
Brian Kirkpatrick can be reached at Brian@tpr.org and on Twitter at @TPRBrian.
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