News

Sonic plans further SoCal expansion

June 20, 2013

Sonic Drive-In is diving deeper into Carl's Jr. and In-N-Out Burger territory. The chain announced today that it has signed an agreement with existing franchisee SPG Management to develop five new drive-ins in San Diego County, and 10 new units in the greater Los Angeles market throughout the next six years.

The agreement is part of Sonic's franchise development push across the country, according to Mike Gallagher, vice president of Development and Franchising.

"Our first drive-ins in Southern California proved that local guests love the unique menu and experience we offer. The talented team at SPG Management is the perfect group to bring that experience to more people," he said.

SPG Management currently owns and operates five other Sonic Drive-Ins in Southern California and is led by three principals: Max Gelwix, Frank Suryan and Kasey Suryan. The Suryans bring expertise in real estate development, while Gelwix brings relevant industry experience. Gelwix was a multiunit Arco AM/PM franchisee and CFO for a contractor of McDonald's, where he built 70 McDonald's restaurants during his tenure.

"We've enjoyed great success as part of the SONIC family because we've taken this strong brand and focused on hiring passionate people to deliver an outstanding experience to our customers every day," said Kasey Suryan, principal of SPG Management. "We see such demand for Sonic that's not being met today, and these new drive-ins will help us meet it."

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