MJP –
A&W Restaurants, a beloved American quick-service brand with over a century of history, announced its plans to grow its presence in Wisconsin by opening new locations in Milwaukee and Madison.
The expansion will create 3-5 new locations in Milwaukee and 2-4 in Madison over the next five years, offering local entrepreneurs the chance to bring an iconic brand to their communities.
With Madison as Wisconsin’s fastest-growing area and Milwaukee boasting a highly educated workforce of nearly 85,000 downtown employees, A&W’s move supports both cities’ rising populations of young professionals.
This growth aims to tap into the region’s entrepreneurial spirit, offering a solid business model and a trusted brand with deep community roots.
A&W Restaurants, one of the most iconic American fast food chains known for its root beer floats and classic drive-in service, is gearing up for a major expansion in Wisconsin. The beloved brand, which has been serving up its signature flavors for over a century, plans to open multiple new locations across the state, bringing its timeless menu to even more communities in the Dairy State.
A&W’s Wisconsin Expansion: What to Expect
As part of a broader growth strategy, A&W is set to introduce several new locations in Wisconsin, with a particular focus on areas that have shown strong demand for family-friendly dining options and nostalgic American fast food experiences.
The chain’s expansion plans are designed to tap into the growing desire for convenient, high-quality meals paired with the classic American dining experience that A&W offers.
The new Wisconsin locations will feature the familiar retro drive-in style that A&W is known for, with many restaurants offering both drive-thru and dine-in options. The expansion is expected to create new jobs for local communities, as well as bring a fresh dining experience to customers who are eager to enjoy A&W’s signature offerings.
Why Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is a natural fit for A&W’s expansion plans. The state has a strong tradition of supporting local and regional food chains, and residents are known for their love of comfort foods like burgers, fries, and, of course, root beer. A&W’s dedication to quality ingredients and nostalgic Americana resonates with a diverse demographic, from families and students to nostalgic baby boomers looking for a taste of the past.
Moreover, the success of A&W in Wisconsin’s neighboring markets has played a significant role in the chain’s decision to expand further into the state. With a loyal customer base already established in other Midwestern regions, A&W sees Wisconsin as a key market to fuel its next phase of growth.
What’s On the Menu?
A&W is renowned for its signature root beer, which has been a favorite since the brand’s founding in 1919. In addition to the root beer floats, the menu includes a variety of classic American fast food items, such as:
- Burgers and Chicken: A&W’s famous All-American Burger, crispy chicken sandwiches, and savory chicken tenders.
- Hot Dogs: A&W’s classic, all-beef hot dogs, served with a range of toppings.
- Fries and Sides: Golden, crispy fries, onion rings, and a variety of sides that complement any meal.
- Frozen Treats: In addition to root beer floats, A&W offers ice cream and milkshakes that have earned a loyal following over the years.
For many customers, the experience at A&W goes beyond just the food—it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The retro drive-in experience, where customers can order from their car and enjoy a meal while listening to music, will be an important feature of the new locations.
Community Impact
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With this expansion, A&W is not only increasing its footprint in Wisconsin but also creating economic opportunities for local communities.
New restaurants will generate jobs in both the front-of-house and back-of-house operations, contributing to local employment and economic growth. A&W is also committed to sourcing ingredients and products from local suppliers whenever possible, further strengthening its ties to Wisconsin’s agricultural industry.
A&W’s focus on community engagement and creating a welcoming environment for families has always been part of its brand identity. As the chain continues to grow, it looks forward to becoming a cherished part of the fabric of Wisconsin communities.
What’s Next for A&W?
While the specifics of the locations and opening dates are still being finalized, A&W has promised that the new restaurants will be opening soon, with several planned to launch in 2025. The brand’s parent company has also hinted that additional expansions across the Midwest are in the works, indicating a wider regional growth strategy in the years to come.
For now, Wisconsin residents can look forward to the return of a cherished favorite—A&W Restaurants, bringing its classic American fare, friendly service, and of course, its famous root beer, to even more neighborhoods in the state.
Stay tuned for more details about A&W’s grand openings in Wisconsin, and get ready to enjoy the taste of nostalgia—root beer and all—coming soon to a town near you!
Juniper Calloway is a dedicated journalist with 3 years of experience in covering hard-hitting stories. Known for her commitment to delivering timely and accurate updates, she currently works with MikeandJon Podcast, where she focuses on reporting critical topics such as crime, local news, and national developments across the United States. Her ability to break down complex issues and keep audiences informed has established her as a trusted voice in journalism.
