How This Franchisee’s Nostalgia Inspired a New A&W Franchise in Naples, FL

A&W Restaurants, the 500-plus unit, all-American restaurant concept, is coming to Naples, FL, thanks to local business expert and veteran franchisee Steve Furhman. 

Fuhrman has been opening and running businesses since 1985, when he partnered with his father and sister to open an investment management firm. He has since opened several other successful companies but has always dreamed of entering the food industry. As a self-proclaimed “foodie,” Fuhrman was interested in opening a restaurant but understood the difficulties involved in doing so. After much deliberation, he decided to take the plunge and bring one of his favorite restaurants, A&W, to Naples, FL.

“My love for food pushed me toward restaurant ownership,” said Fuhrman. “I’ve always wanted to get into the food industry, but I know people who are already in it and how difficult it can be to break into the industry. Even though I have a lot of business experience, I wanted to gain experience in the food industry from an established brand. That’s why I wanted to go with a franchise. There isn’t a steep learning curve with franchising because you get their marketing, branding and support.”

Once franchise owners have opened their restaurants, A&W’s marketing team ensures that every restaurant benefits from the franchise’s substantial brand awareness — a critical point of differentiation in a crowded industry. Leveraging this support and the brand’s positive reputation, Fuhrman expects his A&W restaurant to bring in a loyal customer base immediately.

“A&W is a quality brand that can speak for itself in the community,” said Fuhrman. “A&W has national brand recognition. Even though it might not be in the area now, many people have memories from their childhood of the brand. I know that I do. I always think of the frosted rootbeer when I think of A&W. It’s just a very nostalgic brand that resonates with people.”

A&W differentiates itself from others in the QSR segment by offering high-quality food while still providing the swift service one would expect from a restaurant in the QSR industry. The result? The brand offers an unparalleled dining experience and in-demand meals that stand out from the competition.

“I loved the food they serve, and it brings back great memories,” said Fuhrman. “I really liked the quick-serve business model, and I know that it can sustain even through a pandemic. I’m excited to break into the industry and run a restaurant where I can serve great food and great memories.”

The brand’s leadership is equally thrilled about the franchise partnership and is excited for Fuhrman to guide the chain into new territory.

“We are fortunate to be growing quickly with experienced, successful restaurant operators like Steve and his team,” said Michelle Reap, senior franchise development manager. “A&W is expanding rapidly but still has excellent territory available.”

Moving forward, A&W seeks qualified franchise owners for development in Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida and Nevada. 

The total investment necessary to begin an A&W operation, not including rent or land costs, is $871,000 to $1,454,750 for a Freestanding Restaurant; $401,000 to $1,013,750 for an Inline Restaurant; and $276,000 to $704,000 for a Captive Restaurant, including a $15,000-$30,000 franchise fee.

ABOUT A&W Restaurants

Established in 1919 in Lodi, California, as a roadside stand, A&W Restaurants now stands as a thriving part of the American experience. With 500-plus locations across the country, including 300 standalone restaurants, the brand remains a one-of-a-kind true original. Even its signature A&W Root Beer, served in an iconic frosty mug, is handcrafted at the restaurant. Today, that traditional approach resonates strongly with consumers looking for authentic brands. For more information, visit https://franchising.awrestaurants.com/.