Three South Carolina Shoney’s Restaurants Become Franchisee Owned and Operated

NASHVLLE, Tenn. (Aug. 3, 2005) – Shoney’s Restaurants announced today that three corporate-owned Shoney’s Restaurants in South Carolina have been purchased and will be operated by franchisee Gary Lowe. 

“Shoney’s current strategy is to increase the number of franchisee-owned restaurants, because the brand works best in the hands of franchisees who have strong ties to the community,” said Rodger Head, president and COO of Shoney’s Restaurants.”  In the next few months, more than 25 corporate restaurants throughout the United States will become franchisee owned and operated.”

Lowe will own and operate two restaurants in Charleston, 1656 Savannah Hwy., and 6328 Rivers Ave., N.; and one in Summerville at 1307 North Main St.  In addition, Lowe also operates four restaurants in Arden, Enka, Clyde and Franklin, N.C.

Lowe said, “Shoney’s brand has a solid reputation as one of America’s favorite family-dining restaurants, and to say I own seven Shoney’s Restaurants is a honor.”

Head added, “This is an exciting time at Shoney’s Restaurants.  For the first time in 13 years, Shoney’s is celebrating positive same-store sales.  That’s a direct result of the dedication and professionalism of franchisees like Gary who believe in the brand’s vitality and heritage.”

Last year, Shoney’s started a new initiative that focuses on re-franchising.  As part of this initiative, new franchisees receive more in-the-field training, restaurants will receive a new look and a new franchisee agreement was developed that encourages greater involvement in marketing decisions from operators.

Joe Phraner, vice president of franchise services at Shoney’s, says the focus on re-franchising has paid off. “Refranchising has played an important role in returning Shoney’s to the brand it once was. Franchisees now have more say in marketing efforts and are considered important contributors to our renewed success,” he said.