5 Once-Famous Food Franchises You Didn't Know Are Still Operating

Today’s market is filled with franchise business; almost every other business we pass is a franchise. In fact, research firm FRANdata reported in 2019 that there were approximately 773,603 franchise establishments in the U.S. Additionally, in any given year, 250-350 new brands elect to franchise. 

But with all the growth of new brands, there are some once-famous yet still consistent brands that have remained beacons of the franchising world, though they might have temporarily slipped your mind: A&W Restaurants, Kona Ice, Carvel, Sonic and Dairy Queen*. 

A&W Restaurants

As the oldest restaurant franchise in the U.S., started in 1919 by founder Roy W. Allen (and then joined by partner Frank Wright in 1922), A&W Restaurants has stamina. As of 2019, the brand had more than 625 restaurants in the continental U.S. and Alaska, and 340 units internationally. 

Kona Ice

Kona Ice, one of the newer franchises on this list, started in 2007 – but the momentum continues with the brand’s low overhead and ability for franchise partners to move the shaved-ice truck around. Currently, there are more than 1,000 trucks in 48 states, and the brand continues to grow. 

Carvel 

Carvel was founded in 1934 by Tom Carvel and has remained an American ice cream staple, best known for its soft-serve ice cream and ice-cream cakes. With 323 locations scattered among 19 states, it may be tricky finding a location to try Carvel’s tasty treats, but the good news is that this iconic brand is still franchising. 

Sonic

Sonic began in the late 1950s as a drive-in classic, and the trend hasn’t faded, with diners still flocking to the brand’s more than 3,500 locations in 45 states for their favorite bites, sodas and milkshakes.  

Dairy Queen 

Dairy Queen began franchising the same year as its founding (1940), and now the brand has 4,360 locations in 49 states. Although it’s not a top-of-mind brand for many consumers in a world where we are overloaded with options, Dairy Queen has consistently been among the most persistent entries on the Franchise 500 list, appearing in more than 95% of those lists since 1979.