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A&W Restaurants is a beloved American fast-food chain, best known for its signature root beer, tasty burgers, and timeless diner vibe. Founded in 1919 in California, the brand has grown to include hundreds of locations throughout the United States and internationally, delighting generations of root beer enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
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Below, you’ll find key A&W headquarters contact information, a look at the brand’s fascinating history, career opportunities, and other resources for fans looking to get in touch or learn more.
A&W Origin Story
Founder & Early Days
A&W got its start when Roy W. Allen opened a root beer stand in Lodi, California, in 1919 to serve returning World War I veterans during a celebratory parade. Allen’s root beer recipe quickly gained popularity for its smooth, creamy taste—made with real cane sugar and a unique blend of herbs and spices.
In 1922, Allen teamed up with Frank Wright, combining their initials (“A” for Allen and “W” for Wright) to create A&W. The company soon expanded through an innovative franchising system that helped establish A&W stands across the country, often featuring drive-in service. By the 1950s, A&W had become a staple in American car culture, with families and friends pulling up in their automobiles and enjoying frosty mugs of root beer delivered by carhops.
Over the decades, the brand has experienced multiple ownership changes and expansions, including a period under Yum! Brands until 2011. Today, A&W is owned by a consortium of its franchisees under the entity A Great American Brand, LLC, and remains dedicated to serving fresh food and handcrafted root beer the same way Roy Allen intended over a century ago.
Interesting Facts About A&W
- Frosty Mugs: A&W’s iconic frosty mugs are chilled to enhance the smooth flavor of their root beer. Many locations still follow the tradition of freezing mugs before pouring drinks.
- Family Favorites: The A&W menu highlights classic diner fare, including the Papa Burger®, Chicken Tenders, hot dogs, and cheese curds (in certain regions).
- Historic Firsts: A&W is often cited as one of the first restaurant chains to use the franchising model, helping it spread rapidly across North America.
- Root Beer Float: The famous root beer float (also called a “Black Cow”) is a signature treat, made with creamy vanilla soft serve or ice cream combined with A&W’s house-made root beer.
- International Presence: A&W has expanded beyond the United States to places like Canada, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, adapting menu items to local tastes while maintaining classic items like root beer and the Papa Burger®.
To learn more about the brand’s extensive history and evolution, visit the official A&W Restaurants website:
A&W Restaurants – Official Website
You can also find additional historical details on:
Wikipedia: A&W Restaurants
Exploring A&W Headquarters
Where Is the A&W Headquarters?
A&W’s corporate headquarters is located in Lexington, Kentucky. This central location is where the leadership team oversees franchise operations, marketing, menu development, and strategic growth for the brand.
Address:
A&W Restaurants, Inc.
1648 McGrathiana Parkway, Suite 380
Lexington, KY 40511, USA
Phone Number:
+1 (859) 219-0019
Official A&W Website:
awrestaurants.com
Tour the Headquarters
While A&W does not typically offer public tours of its corporate office, you can always experience the heart of the brand by visiting any of its locations. Each restaurant is designed to highlight nostalgia and classic American fare, served up in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
For official announcements, press releases, or media updates, watch the company’s press resources or the “News” section on their official website:
A&W Press & News
Leadership at A&W
A&W Executives
A&W Restaurants is privately owned by a group of franchisees, and its leadership focuses on supporting franchise operators, innovating the menu, and maintaining the chain’s long-standing reputation. Key figures include:
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Kevin Bazner
- President & COO: (Leadership roles can change; see the A&W Team Page for updates.)
Leadership Philosophy
From the early root beer stand days to its modern presence, A&W has consistently valued:
- Quality Ingredients: Using real cane sugar in its root beer and emphasizing fresh, cooked-to-order food.
- Hospitality: Upholding a welcoming environment that encourages families and friends to enjoy classic American dining.
- Tradition & Innovation: Honoring its storied past while embracing new techniques, technologies, and menu ideas to stay current in the fast-food landscape.
A&W Careers & Opportunities
How to Find Open Positions
A&W offers a range of jobs at both the restaurant level and in corporate. Positions often include the following:
- Restaurant Positions: Cashier, cook, crew member, shift leader, and restaurant manager roles.
- Corporate Roles: Opportunities in marketing, finance, franchise support, human resources, and other professional departments.
Where to Look:
- Online: Visit the A&W Careers page for current listings. Some local A&W restaurants may also post opportunities on general job websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, or local classifieds.
- In-Person: Inquire directly at local franchises. Many A&W restaurants have “Now Hiring” signs with application instructions.
How to Apply
- Online: Complete an application through the A&W website or relevant corporate careers portal if available.
- In-Person: Some franchises accept paper applications or walk-in interviews. Best to call ahead or visit during non-peak hours for more information.
Internal Promotions & Managerial Roles
Many A&W franchisees encourage internal growth, offering employees the chance to work their way up to leadership positions. Longtime team members often transition from crew roles to assistant manager, general manager, or even franchise ownership.
Employee Benefits
Benefits can vary between corporate-owned and franchise-owned restaurants, but may include:
- Competitive pay and flexible scheduling
- Paid training programs and career development
- Meal discounts or free meals
- Health and retirement benefits for eligible positions
Always verify the specifics with the franchise owner or corporate HR representative for the most accurate, up-to-date information.
How to Contact A&W
How to Issue a Complaint or Provide Feedback
A&W values customer input. If you have feedback, a complaint, or simply want to share your experience, consider:
- Phone: +1 (859) 219-0019
- Email/Contact Form: Use the online form on A&W’s Contact Us page.
- Direct Restaurant Contact: For location-specific questions or concerns, you can often find the phone number or contact information for individual restaurants through the A&W Locations page.
Common Support FAQs
- Lost an item at an A&W restaurant?
Call the specific restaurant directly. Lost and found items are usually managed on-site. - Requesting a refund or reporting a service issue?
Keep your receipt. Contact the restaurant where the transaction occurred or reach out through the online contact form with details about your visit.
Resources for A&W Enthusiasts
Stay Connected
To keep up with the latest news, menu releases, promotions, and contests, follow A&W on social media:
- Facebook: facebook.com/awrestaurants
- Twitter/X: x.com/awrestaurants (Handle subject to change)
- Instagram: @awrestaurants
These channels often feature giveaways, limited-time menu offerings, and community events.
Final Words on the A&W Headquarters
For over 100 years, A&W has charmed diners with its timeless root beer and classic American eats. Whether you’re a longtime fan craving a frosty mug of root beer or a newcomer looking for a retro dining experience, A&W’s commitment to hospitality, quality, and tradition sets it apart.
Now that you have an inside look at A&W’s history, headquarters, leadership, and career opportunities, what’s your go-to A&W order? Share your favorite menu item or story below—your recommendation might just inspire someone else to rediscover (or discover for the first time) the sweet taste of an American original!