Whataburger, a beloved regional fast food chain, has its corporate headquarters located in San Antonio, Texas. Founded in 1950 in Corpus Christi, this American restaurant company has grown to become a significant player in the fast food industry, particularly known for its hamburgers.
Whataburger’s corporate office can be reached at 300 Concord Plaza Dr., San Antonio, TX 78216, with a main office phone number of 1-210-476-6000. For customer inquiries, a separate line is available at 1-800-628-7437. These contact details provide direct access to the company’s management and customer service teams.
The restaurant chain, originally family-owned by the Dobsons, underwent a change in 2019 when it was acquired by a private equity firm. Despite this transition, Whataburger maintains its headquarters in San Antonio, continuing to oversee its operations and expansion from this central location.
Whataburger Company Overview
Whataburger is a prominent burger restaurant chain with deep Texas roots and a loyal customer following. The company has grown from a single location to hundreds of restaurants across multiple states while maintaining its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
History and Expansion
Whataburger was founded in 1950 by Harmon Dobson in Corpus Christi, Texas. The first restaurant gained popularity for its large, five-inch burgers that required two hands to hold.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Whataburger expanded across Texas and into neighboring states. By the 1980s, the chain had opened its 300th location.
Today, Whataburger operates over 800 restaurants across 10 states, primarily in the southern United States. The company’s headquarters are located in San Antonio, Texas.
Mission and Values
Whataburger’s mission centers on providing high-quality food and exceptional customer service. The company prides itself on using fresh ingredients and made-to-order meals.
Key values include:
- Quality: Using 100% pure beef patties and fresh produce
- Customization: Offering numerous topping options
- Community involvement: Supporting local initiatives and charities
- Employee development: Providing growth opportunities for staff
These principles have helped Whataburger maintain a strong brand identity and customer loyalty in a competitive fast-food market.
Family-owned Roots
For nearly seven decades, Whataburger remained a family-owned business under the leadership of the Dobson family. This structure allowed the company to maintain its unique culture and values.
In 2019, the majority stake of Whataburger was sold to BDT Capital Partners, a merchant bank in Chicago. Despite this change in ownership, the Dobson family retains a minority stake in the business.
The company continues to operate with a focus on preserving its Texas heritage and commitment to quality. Many long-time employees and customers view Whataburger as more than just a restaurant, but as a beloved cultural institution in Texas and beyond.
Corporate Leadership
Whataburger’s leadership team consists of experienced executives and department heads who guide the company’s strategic direction and operations. These leaders bring diverse skills and industry expertise to steer the fast-food chain’s growth and success.
Executive Team
Ed Nelson serves as Whataburger’s CEO, leading the company’s overall strategy and vision. Debbie Stroud holds the position of Executive Vice President, contributing to high-level decision-making. Elena Kraus acts as General Counsel, overseeing legal affairs and compliance.
Leonard Mazzocco plays a key role in the executive team, while Scott Hudler manages marketing and communications strategies. These top executives work together to drive Whataburger’s expansion and maintain its competitive edge in the fast-food industry.
Department Leaders
Jeffrey Hagelman was promoted to Vice President of Legal Affairs & Compliance, strengthening Whataburger’s legal team. Jeff Weinstein, a 24-year company veteran, now serves as Vice President of Human Resources.
Weinstein oversees HR functions, including total rewards, HR business partners, and talent development. His role is crucial in managing Whataburger’s workforce, referred to as “Family Members.” The company’s IT department is led by an IT Business Manager who works closely with the Chief Information Officer.
Corporate Headquarters
Whataburger’s corporate headquarters serves as the central hub for the company’s operations. The office coordinates activities across its restaurant locations and houses key administrative functions.
Address and Location
Whataburger’s corporate headquarters is located at 300 Concord Plaza Dr., San Antonio, TX 78216, USA. This site in San Antonio has been the company’s main office since 2009. The location provides easy access to major highways and is situated in a bustling business district.
San Antonio’s central position within Texas allows Whataburger to efficiently manage its restaurant network across the southern United States. The headquarters’ phone number is 210-476-6000 for general inquiries.
Facilities and Work Environment
The Whataburger corporate office features modern amenities to support its employees. Open workspaces promote collaboration, while private meeting rooms allow for focused discussions. The facility includes a test kitchen where new menu items are developed and refined.
Employee perks often include an on-site cafeteria serving Whataburger favorites. The office design incorporates the company’s orange and white color scheme, reflecting brand identity throughout the workspace.
Whataburger’s corporate culture emphasizes teamwork and innovation. The headquarters hosts regular training sessions and strategy meetings for regional managers and franchisees.
Product and Services
Whataburger offers a diverse menu of fast food items with a focus on burgers and breakfast. The company prides itself on quality ingredients and customizable options for customers.
Menu Items
Whataburger’s core product is its lineup of made-to-order burgers. The signature Whataburger features a 5-inch bun with a beef patty, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and diced onions. Other popular items include the Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich and the Breakfast on a Bun.
The menu also includes chicken sandwiches, salads, and sides like fries and onion rings. Breakfast is served from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m., featuring items such as the Breakfast Platter and taquitos.
Whataburger offers a variety of drink options, including soft drinks, shakes, and coffee. The company has also introduced limited-time specialty burgers to keep the menu fresh and exciting.
Quality and Sourcing
Whataburger emphasizes the quality of its ingredients. The company uses 100% pure beef patties that are never frozen. Buns are baked fresh daily, and vegetables are hand-cut in restaurants.
The fast food chain sources its ingredients from trusted suppliers. Whataburger works closely with these partners to ensure consistent quality across all locations.
Food safety is a top priority. The company implements strict food handling and preparation procedures in all its restaurants. Regular training and inspections help maintain high standards of cleanliness and food safety.
Innovation in Offerings
Whataburger regularly introduces new menu items to cater to changing customer preferences. The company has expanded its breakfast offerings, recognizing the growing demand for morning meals.
The chain has also embraced technology to enhance customer experience. Mobile ordering through the Whataburger app allows customers to customize and place orders for pickup or delivery.
Whataburger has introduced a loyalty program called Whataburger Rewards. Customers earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for free menu items. This program aims to increase customer retention and frequency of visits.
Customer Engagement
Whataburger prioritizes customer engagement through multiple channels and support initiatives. The company focuses on building strong connections with its customers to enhance brand loyalty and satisfaction.
Channels of Communication
Whataburger utilizes various platforms to communicate with its customers. The company maintains an active presence on social media, responding promptly to inquiries, feedback, and mentions. This real-time interaction fosters a sense of responsiveness and personalized communication.
The official Whataburger website serves as a central hub for customer engagement. It provides comprehensive information about menu items, promotions, and restaurant locations. Customers can easily access contact information and submit feedback through dedicated forms.
Whataburger also employs email marketing to keep customers informed about new menu offerings, special deals, and company updates. This direct communication channel helps maintain ongoing relationships with loyal patrons.
Customer Support Initiatives
Whataburger’s customer support team plays a crucial role in addressing concerns and resolving issues. The company offers multiple ways for customers to reach out, including phone support, email, and social media channels.
To enhance the customer experience, Whataburger implements a robust feedback system. This allows the company to gather valuable insights and make improvements based on customer suggestions.
Whataburger’s commitment to customer care extends to its in-restaurant experience. Staff members are trained to provide friendly and efficient service, ensuring customer satisfaction at every touchpoint.
The company also leverages technology to streamline customer support. Its mobile app enables customers to place orders, access exclusive deals, and provide feedback conveniently.
Career Opportunities
Whataburger offers diverse career paths for both restaurant and corporate roles. The company provides avenues for professional growth and development, along with a range of job openings across various departments.
Employee Development
Whataburger invests in its employees’ growth through leadership development programs. The company offers training opportunities to help staff climb the leadership ladder. Employees can advance from entry-level positions to management roles within the restaurant system.
Corporate team members also benefit from skill-building initiatives. Whataburger encourages continuous learning and provides resources for professional advancement. The company’s commitment to employee development fosters a culture of growth and retention.
Job Openings and Applications
Whataburger maintains an active hiring process for both restaurant and corporate positions. Restaurant careers include roles such as team members, shift leaders, and managers. These positions offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.
Corporate careers span various departments, including marketing, finance, and operations. Job seekers can browse available positions on Whataburger’s career website. The application process is streamlined, allowing candidates to apply online for their desired roles.
Whataburger’s expansion across 14 states has created numerous job opportunities. The company seeks individuals who align with its values and are passionate about customer service. Interested applicants can explore openings in field support and corporate offices.
Business Strategy
Whataburger’s corporate strategy focuses on steady expansion, strategic franchising, and targeted marketing initiatives. The company aims to grow its presence while maintaining quality and brand identity.
Growth Plans
Whataburger plans to expand beyond its core markets in the southern United States. The company is targeting new regions for restaurant openings, with a focus on the Midwest and Southeast. Whataburger aims to open 25-30 new locations annually over the next five years.
The expansion strategy includes a mix of company-owned and franchised restaurants. Whataburger is investing in updated restaurant designs to appeal to modern consumers while retaining its classic look.
The company is also exploring international growth opportunities, with potential expansion into Mexico being considered.
Franchising Details
Whataburger has traditionally been selective with franchising, maintaining tight control over operations. Recently, the company has opened up more franchising opportunities to fuel growth.
Franchisees must meet strict financial and operational criteria. The initial franchise fee is $40,000, with a total investment ranging from $1.2 to $2.8 million depending on location and restaurant type.
Whataburger provides comprehensive training and support to franchisees, including:
- 6-8 weeks of initial training
- Ongoing operational guidance
- Marketing support
- Supply chain assistance
Marketing Efforts
Whataburger’s marketing strategy emphasizes its Texas roots and commitment to quality. Key marketing initiatives include:
- Brand ambassadors: Partnering with local celebrities and influencers to promote the brand
- Social media engagement: Active presence on platforms like Instagram and Twitter
- Limited-time offers: Introducing seasonal menu items to drive customer interest
- Community involvement: Sponsoring local events and sports teams
The company’s “Just like you like it” slogan highlights its customization options. Whataburger also leverages its unique orange-and-white striped buildings as a recognizable brand asset.
Digital marketing efforts focus on mobile app promotion and targeted online advertising. The Whataburger app offers exclusive deals and a loyalty program to encourage repeat visits.
Community Involvement
Whataburger demonstrates a strong commitment to giving back to the communities it serves. The company engages in various initiatives and programs that support local causes and foster positive change.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Whataburger’s signature community program, Feeding Student Success, addresses food insecurity and education. The company establishes college resource rooms and provides scholarships to support students in need. Whataburger also partners with local charities and organizations to maximize its impact.
The company encourages employee volunteerism, allowing team members to contribute their time and skills to meaningful causes. This approach strengthens community ties and reinforces Whataburger’s values-driven culture.
Local Initiatives
Whataburger actively participates in local events and supports regional causes. The company sponsors high school football games in Texas, fostering community spirit and local pride. This tradition of local involvement dates back to the 1950s when Whataburger sponsored its first little league team in Corpus Christi.
The company’s orange-and-white striped restaurants serve as community landmarks. Whataburger leverages its distinctive branding to create a sense of regional identity and connection with customers. By tailoring its community engagement efforts to specific locations, Whataburger reinforces its commitment to the areas it serves.
Ethical Practices
Whataburger demonstrates commitment to ethical business practices through sustainability initiatives and a company-wide code of conduct. These efforts aim to create a positive impact on communities and maintain high standards of integrity.
Sustainability Efforts
Whataburger focuses on reducing environmental impact across its operations. The company has implemented energy-efficient lighting and equipment in restaurants to decrease energy consumption. Water conservation measures include low-flow faucets and drought-resistant landscaping at some locations.
Whataburger partners with local suppliers when possible to support regional economies and reduce transportation emissions. The company has also increased its use of recyclable and compostable packaging materials.
Efforts to minimize food waste include donating excess food to local food banks and shelters. Whataburger works with organizations to redistribute unsold food to those in need, reducing landfill waste while supporting communities.
Code of Conduct
Whataburger maintains a comprehensive code of conduct that outlines expectations for employee behavior and business practices. The code emphasizes integrity, respect, and fairness in all interactions with customers, colleagues, and partners.
Key elements include guidelines for ethical decision-making, conflict of interest policies, and procedures for reporting concerns. Employees receive regular training on the code of conduct to ensure understanding and compliance.
Janelle Sykes, Chief Financial Officer, oversees financial integrity and transparency initiatives. Peggy Rubenzer, Chief People Officer, leads efforts to promote a positive workplace culture aligned with the company’s ethical standards.
Whataburger enforces its code through internal audits and a confidential reporting system for ethical concerns. This commitment to ethical practices extends to relationships with suppliers and business partners, who are expected to adhere to similar standards.