A&W Targets Columbia and Nearby Cities for New Franchise Growth
LEXINGTON, KY – June 12, 2025 – A&W Restaurants, the iconic all-American QSR brand with over 105 years of heritage, has announced strategic franchise expansion plans targeting Columbia, South Carolina, and nearby markets like Darlington. This move creates fresh opportunities for local entrepreneurs to invest in a proven business model while growing a trusted brand in their own communities.
Why Columbia, SC is a Prime Market for Franchise Growth
Columbia stands out for its strong economy and increasing population, making it a key market for business growth. The region’s surge in housing, retail, and dining demand is fueled by steady economic gains. As more people move into the area, the need for high-quality, recognizable dining options grows. A&W plans to meet this demand by developing single-unit and multi-unit franchise opportunities, potentially creating up to 100 jobs per location.
A&W Brings All-American Flavor and Community Spirit
“A&W Restaurants has become part of communities across the country by serving classic all-American food and offering a welcoming, hometown experience,” said Betsy Schmandt, CEO and President of A&W Restaurants. “We’re excited about the potential in Columbia and surrounding cities. It’s the perfect region for driven, community-minded franchisees who want to build something meaningful and long-lasting.”
Growth Continues Across South Carolina
This expansion isn’t A&W’s first move into the state. The brand entered South Carolina in 2023 with the opening of its Rock Hill location. Most recently, Darlington welcomed its first A&W on June 4, 2025. The company now plans to open three additional restaurants in the coming years. With over 850 locations worldwide, A&W continues to focus on partnering with local entrepreneurs who align with its core values: quality, service, and community.
Franchise Opportunities Now Available in Columbia
A&W is actively seeking franchise partners in Columbia who are passionate about local business and dedicated to delivering top-tier guest experiences. New franchisees will benefit from more than a century of brand trust, ongoing support, and a roadmap for long-term growth.
Franchise Requirements Include:
- Minimum liquid assets of $300,000
- Net worth of $700,000
If you’re ready to join a legacy brand with a commitment to local communities, now is the time to invest in A&W.
To learn more about franchising with A&W Restaurants, visit our franchise website here.
About A&W Restaurants
A&W Restaurants, one of the world’s best-known and most beloved quick-service brands, is experiencing a dramatic revival as more Americans discover – or rediscover – its famous Root Beer and high-quality All American Food® favorites. Based on the original 1919 recipe, A&W’s signature Root Beer is made fresh in each restaurant with real cane sugar, water, and a proprietary blend of herbs, bark, spices, and berries and served in a frosty mug. Founded over 100 years ago, A&W Restaurants has over 850 locations in 35 U.S. states and Asia, of which over 600 are single-brand A&Ws and 230 are co-branded with KFC or Long John Silver’s.
