Who is whataburger owned by

Both will turn to running Las Aguilas, an investment firm launched by the Dobson family in that focuses on real estate and philanthropy. Hamburger chains in particular are vying for customers in a crowded arena, making it harder for a company such as Whataburger to differentiate itself from an increasing number of competitors. Whataburger oversees 43, employees and operates more than locations, with over in Texas alone.

Most of its restaurants are company-owned, but that would change if Whataburger re-franchised the bulk of the chain, reflecting a trend playing out in the fast-food industry.

Through re-franchising, a company can shift those costs to franchisees and return more cash to shareholders. They are often more closely connected to the community than corporate owners and may have an easier time finding and retaining staff, Adams said.

Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton founded Whataburger in in Corpus Christi, where the fast-food chain would operate for six decades before it moved to San Antonio.

Whataburger has depended on its cult following as it has branched into other ventures. The brand has even spilled into Texas politics. Last year, Whataburger unwittingly became a fixture in former U. By choosing I Accept , you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. Filed under:. Pocket Flipboard Email. More From Eater Austin.

Sign up for the newsletter Eater Austin Sign up for our newsletter. Thanks for signing up! After a year hiatus, Whataburger is stepping up franchising, redesigning its outlets, despite the hurdles injected by pandemic restrictions. Nonetheless, change is often the case when ownership shifts, and revenue numbers must be reached—or consequences happen.

Nelson spearheaded its curbside and delivery service and helped develop seven new eateries. Whataburger is based in San Antonio and has Longhorn roots. Under its new ownership, in alone, it expects to open 15 new eateries and 25 are on the boards for Some of its new eateries will be located in Tennessee and Missouri. To keep the revenue flowing during the pandemic, when indoor dining was prohibited in most locations, it offers drive-thru, curbside and delivery options.

And to this day, the burger rules at Whataburger. He said Whataburger was recognized for its hospitality and its customization, serving individual toppings and cheese, with each burger.