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Sonic Drive-In, commonly referred to simply as “Sonic,” is an iconic American fast-food chain known for its nostalgic drive-in service, expansive drink menu, and classic comfort fare. Founded in the 1950s in Oklahoma, Sonic has grown to thousands of locations across the United States, delighting customers with carhops on roller skates and a unique drive-in dining experience.
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Below, you’ll find essential Sonic headquarters contact information, interesting tidbits about the brand’s history, career opportunities, and other resources for fans looking to get in touch or learn more.
Sonic Origin Story
Founder & Early Days
Sonic was founded in 1953 by Troy N. Smith Sr. in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Originally named “Top Hat Drive-In,” the restaurant started as a small root beer stand. Smith envisioned an innovative curbside ordering service, allowing customers to place orders without leaving their cars. This convenience and novelty quickly garnered local fans.
In 1959, the name changed to “Sonic,” reflecting the motto “Service at the Speed of Sound.” Sonic Drive-In began franchising soon afterward and expanded to multiple states, offering a fun, retro-style dining experience that celebrates car culture, cheerful carhops, and flavorful menu items.
Today, Sonic is part of the Inspire Brands family (which also includes Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Dunkin’). Through decades of growth, Sonic has remained focused on tasty, quick-service meals served in a lively, drive-in atmosphere.
Interesting Facts About Sonic
- Carhop Service: Sonic is famous for its carhops—many of whom deliver orders on roller skates, adding a retro flair.
- Happy Hour: Sonic offers a popular “Happy Hour” for half-priced drinks and slushes.
- Expansive Drink Menu: The brand boasts over a million drink combinations, from cherry limeade to customizable slushes.
- Route 44 Drinks: Sonic’s signature 44-ounce beverage size is a long-time favorite for those hot summer days.
- Largest Drive-In Chain: Sonic is known as the largest chain of drive-in restaurants in the U.S., with thousands of locations across 46 states.
For more background on the company’s history, visit the official Sonic website:
Sonic Drive-In Official Website
Additional details can also be found on:
Wikipedia: Sonic Drive-In
Exploring Sonic Headquarters
Where Is the Sonic Headquarters?
Sonic Drive-In’s corporate offices are located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This is the hub where leadership teams oversee restaurant operations, marketing, product innovation, and franchise development.
Address:
300 Johnny Bench Dr.
Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
Phone Number:
+1 (866) 657-6642 (Customer Service)
Official Sonic Website:
https://www.sonicdrivein.com
Inspire Brands Website:
https://www.inspirebrands.com
Tour the Headquarters
Sonic does not publicly offer tours of its corporate office. However, you can experience the brand’s fun culture and classic drive-in charm by visiting any of its locations across the country. For the latest news and official statements, check out Sonic’s media and press releases on:
Sonic Press Room
Leadership at Sonic
Sonic Executives
Because Sonic is a part of Inspire Brands, many top executives and leadership roles overlap with the broader Inspire Brands organization. While roles are subject to change, key figures at Inspire Brands include:
- Chief Executive Officer (Inspire Brands): Paul Brown
- President & Chief Operating Officer (Inspire Brands): [Various leadership roles may apply; check Inspire’s Leadership Page for updates]
- Chief Marketing Officer (Inspire Brands): [Roles and personnel can change; refer to Inspire’s Leadership Page for the latest]
Leadership Philosophy
From its humble beginnings, Sonic Drive-In has upheld several guiding principles:
- Quality and Innovation: Combining classic American fast-food staples with an ever-expanding drink and dessert lineup.
- Community Engagement: Many Sonic locations sponsor local community events and partner with schools and youth organizations.
- Customer-Centricity: The drive-in concept remains a core part of Sonic’s identity, emphasizing personalized service and a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
Sonic Careers & Opportunities
How to Find Open Positions
Sonic offers a wide array of career paths, from entry-level restaurant roles to corporate positions:
- Restaurant Positions: Jobs like carhop, cook, shift leader, and restaurant manager. Openings are typically posted on the official Sonic careers portal or local job boards.
- Corporate Positions: Since Sonic is part of Inspire Brands, corporate roles (including marketing, finance, franchise development, and more) appear on the Inspire Brands careers site.
Helpful links for job searches:
How to Apply
- Online: Visit the Sonic Careers Page or Inspire Brands Careers website to find current openings.
- In-Person: Some franchise-owned Sonic Drive-Ins accept paper applications on-site. If you’re interested in working at a specific location, inquire directly.
- Job Boards: Keep an eye on Indeed, LinkedIn, or other job search platforms for local Sonic postings.
Internal Promotions & Managerial Roles
Sonic often promotes from within, offering dedicated employees the chance to advance to shift lead, assistant manager, and general manager roles. Many franchise owners and corporate leaders started in entry-level positions, showcasing the brand’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing career growth.
Employee Benefits
Benefits vary depending on the franchise owner or corporate position but may include:
- Competitive wages
- Flexible scheduling
- Paid training programs
- Management development programs
- Meal discounts
- Health and retirement benefits (for qualifying roles)
For the most accurate details, consult the franchise owner or corporate HR department during the application process.
How to Contact Sonic
How to Issue a Complaint or Provide Feedback
Sonic values customer feedback. If you have concerns or comments, there are a few ways to reach out:
- Phone: +1 (866) 657-6642 (Customer Service)
- Online Contact Form: Use the Sonic Drive-In Contact Page to submit inquiries or feedback.
For issues with a specific Sonic location, you can often find a direct phone number by using the Location Finder on Sonic’s website.
Common Support FAQs
- Lost an item at a Sonic Drive-In?
Contact the location directly. The on-site team usually handles lost & found requests. - Requesting a refund?
Have your receipt handy and contact either the restaurant directly or use the Sonic Contact Form to expedite the process. Provide any relevant details about your visit.
Resources for Sonic Enthusiasts
Want to stay connected with all things Sonic? Check out these resources:
- Facebook: facebook.com/sonicdrivein
- Twitter/X: x.com/sonicdrivein (Handle subject to change)
- Instagram: @sonicdrivein
Follow Sonic on social media for updates on new menu items, promotions, and special events.
Final Words on the Sonic Headquarters
Sonic Drive-In has carved out a special niche in American fast-food culture, blending nostalgia with modern innovations. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of their classic burgers, footlong coneys, and slushes or a newcomer intrigued by the drive-in experience, knowing the company’s background, how to get in touch, and how to explore career pathways can enhance your enjoyment of this beloved brand.
Have a favorite Sonic treat or a fun memory of a carhop on roller skates? Drop a comment below and let us know—your recommendation might inspire someone else’s next Sonic craving!