A&W Restaurants names Betsy Schmandt as new President, CEO

USA – Quick-service restaurant chain A&W Restaurants has appointed Betsy Schmandt as its new president and CEO, signaling a fresh leadership era for the brand.

Schmandt, who recently served as the company’s president and COO for 18 months, brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles at Mrs. Fields and TCBY.

This change is seen as a pivotal moment in the brand’s 105-year history, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

Kevin Bazner, a long-standing leader at A&W, noted that Schmandt had quickly made her mark by providing strategic direction and operational insights that have driven the brand forward.

He expressed confidence in her ability to lead, emphasizing that her passion and dedication assure him that she is the right choice for this role.

Bazner also highlighted that A&W’s enduring legacy in business is a testament to its resilience and that the company is poised for continued success under its new leadership.

Expanding the Franchise Footprint

In parallel with the leadership transition, A&W Restaurants has been actively expanding its franchise network in the United States.

In February 2024, the company secured four new franchise agreements, which are expected to add 10 new locations across the country.

The first agreement, signed in Tennessee by franchisees Moe and Sam Sallukh, will introduce new outlets in Memphis and Jackson.

Additionally, a multi-unit deal with the Johnson family will see A&W locations open in Valdosta and Lake Park, Georgia, as well as in Jasper, Madison, Live Oak, and Monticello in Florida.

A spokesperson for the Johnson family mentioned that their search for a unique fast-food option for travelers led them to A&W, making them the first franchisees in Georgia.

Expansion efforts continue with plans to reintroduce A&W to Hot Springs, Arkansas, led by Raja Mahmood and Faheem Khalid, and a three-unit agreement in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, headed by Todd Poling.

Bazner indicated that A&W Restaurants is experiencing steady annual net growth in its core brand outlets.

With a robust pipeline of new restaurants and strong market economics, the company is firmly in a growth phase—a prospect that, according to Bazner, is attracting keen interest from investors.

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