Sonic Drive-In announced a new franchise development agreement with SD Holdings, LLC. As part of the agreement, the North Carolina-based franchise group acquires 64 existing drive-ins, including 27 drive-ins in Alabama, five drive-ins in Georgia, 19 drive-ins in Tennessee and 13 drive-ins in Virginia.
Founded in North Carolina in 1999, SD Holdings boasts strong restaurant operations experience in the quick service restaurant and fast casual industry, providing a solid foundation for future growth and success with Sonic. For more than 18 years, the franchise group has expanded its footprint. With the acquisition of these 64 drive-ins, SD Holdings now owns and operates a portfolio of four brands with more than 100 outlets across six states.
“Sonic is an iconic brand with an entrepreneurial spirit and rich heritage encompassing more than 60 years, and we are excited to join its family of franchisees,” says Yaron Goldman, chief executive officer of SD Holdings, LLC. “Sonic offers a unique culture, great people, differentiated menu and a unique drive-in format, setting it apart from the competition. A shared philosophy around relationships as a way of life really drew us to the brand and we look forward to continuing to deliver the one-of-a-kind menu items and dining experience SONIC’s loyal fans and guests know and love.”
Yaron Goldman began his career in the industry in 1996 as an hourly employee. Backed by an experienced leadership team, Yaron plans to grow his Sonic footprint over the next few years. Known as strong supporters of the local communities in which they operate, SD Holdings looks forward to working with Sonic to make a meaningful difference in these new markets.
“We are constantly looking to expand through new franchise partners and feel that we’ve found one of the best in SD Holdings,” says Drew Ritger, senior vice president of development at SONIC. “With their combination of superior leadership and experience, we feel confident they will provide Sonic guests with excellent service for years to come. We look forward to continuing to build on this partnership as we open new drive-ins in these important markets in the coming years.”
Always a drive-in at heart, Sonic works with franchisees to find a building solution to match their needs and the needs of their guests. Sonic offers franchisees flexibility with multiple drive-in formats, including: the traditional drive-in model with 14 to 29 dining stalls and a drive-thru; conversions, renovating existing restaurant buildings to create unique drive-ins; the counter service model, offering customizable footprints to fit a variety of indoor spaces including travel plazas; and indoor dining formats that allow guests to experience Sonic in multiple ways—either in their cars, at the drive-thru or seated at a table inside.
Individuals interested in pursuing a SONIC franchise are encouraged to visit sonicfranchises.com for more information on qualifications and brand support. Multi-unit opportunities are available in a number of markets.
