Whataburger, a beloved fast-food chain founded in Texas, has been serving its iconic burgers across the southern United States for decades. Known for its large, made-to-order burgers and distinctive orange-and-white striped buildings, Whataburger has cultivated a loyal following.
Whataburger currently operates more than 700 locations across the country, with plans for expansion into new markets. The chain’s growth strategy aims to bring its signature flavors to more customers while maintaining the quality and service that made it famous.
Whataburger’s appeal extends beyond its restaurant walls. The company has expanded into retail products, offering branded merchandise and grocery items. Fans can now purchase Whataburger condiments, apparel, and accessories online or in select stores, allowing them to enjoy a taste of the brand at home.
History of Whataburger
Whataburger’s journey from a single burger stand to a beloved regional chain spans over seven decades. The company’s growth reflects its commitment to quality food and community connections.
Founding and Expansion
Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton founded Whataburger in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1950. Their first restaurant quickly gained popularity for its larger-than-average burgers. By the 1960s, Whataburger introduced its iconic A-frame buildings with orange and white stripes.
The chain expanded steadily across Texas and into neighboring states. In 1995, Whataburger celebrated a significant milestone by opening its 500th store. This achievement positioned the company as the eighth-largest hamburger chain in the United States.
Brand Evolution
Whataburger’s menu evolved beyond burgers to include breakfast items and other specialties. The company introduced the WhataGames in 1996, a competition fostering team spirit among employees.
In 1999, Whataburger by the Bay opened in Corpus Christi as a tribute to the company’s upcoming 50th anniversary. This location showcased the brand’s roots and community ties.
The Dobson family maintained ownership until 2019 when BDT & MSD Partners acquired a majority stake. Despite this change, Whataburger remains committed to its Texas heritage and quality standards.
Geographic Presence
Whataburger’s geographic footprint spans multiple states, with a strong concentration in Texas and expanding presence across the Southern and Midwestern United States. The chain has strategically grown from its Texan roots to serve customers in diverse regions.
Whataburger in Texas
Texas remains Whataburger’s stronghold, hosting 740 locations as of 2024. This represents 70% of all Whataburger restaurants nationwide. Major Texas cities boast numerous outlets:
- Houston
- San Antonio
- Dallas
- Austin
- Fort Worth
- El Paso
Corpus Christi, the chain’s birthplace, maintains a special significance. Smaller cities like Tyler and Laredo also feature Whataburger locations, showcasing the brand’s deep Texas penetration.
Expansion Across States
Whataburger has extended beyond Texas into neighboring states:
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Louisiana
The chain has also established a presence in:
- Florida
- Georgia
- Alabama
This expansion reflects Whataburger’s strategy to grow in regions with cultural similarities to its Texas base. States like Arizona and New Mexico have welcomed Whataburger, capitalizing on the brand’s Southwestern appeal.
Midwest and Southern States
Whataburger’s reach extends into the Midwest and deeper South:
- Missouri
- Kansas
- Tennessee
Oklahoma City serves as a notable hub outside Texas. The chain has shown interest in states like:
- Colorado
- Nevada
- South Carolina
These moves indicate Whataburger’s ambition to become a national brand. However, its core remains in the South and Southwest, where its menu and brand resonate strongly with local tastes and preferences.
Menu and Offerings
Whataburger’s menu features a diverse array of burgers, chicken sandwiches, breakfast items, and sides. The restaurant chain prides itself on customizable options and fresh ingredients, catering to various tastes and preferences.
Signature Items
The Original Whataburger stands as the cornerstone of the menu, available in single, double, and triple patty configurations. This iconic burger comes on a 5-inch bun with mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and diced onions. Other popular items include the Whataburger Patty Melt and the Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich.
Whataburger’s fries are a crispy companion to their burgers. For a sweet treat, customers often opt for the chain’s hand-spun shakes, available in chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors.
The breakfast menu features the beloved Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, a fan favorite that combines a crispy chicken strip with honey butter sauce on a fresh-baked biscuit.
Seasonal and Limited-Time Offers
Whataburger regularly introduces seasonal and limited-time offerings to keep their menu exciting. These special items often incorporate regional flavors or trending ingredients. For example, the chain has offered Hatch Green Chile Bacon Burgers during chile season.
In 2024, Whataburger introduced “Whatawings” as a temporary menu item. These boneless wings come in various flavors, including buffalo, sweet and spicy, honey barbecue, and honey butter. Customers can purchase them in 9-piece packs or larger party-size options.
The restaurant also cycles through specialty shakes and pies throughout the year, tying flavors to holidays or seasons. These limited-time offerings create anticipation and encourage repeat visits from loyal customers.
Customer Experience
Whataburger prioritizes customer satisfaction through efficient service and loyalty programs. The chain focuses on creating a welcoming environment and offering convenient ordering options to enhance the dining experience.
Service Model
Whataburger’s service model centers on speed and friendliness. The chain employs a 24/7 service approach at many locations, catering to customers’ needs around the clock. Staff members are trained to provide prompt and courteous service, ensuring a positive interaction with each guest.
Numbered table tents are a distinctive feature of Whataburger’s dine-in experience. This system allows servers to deliver food directly to customers’ tables, reducing wait times and confusion. The company regularly assesses quality of food, speed of service, and staff friendliness through customer feedback tools.
Whataburger takes swift action to address issues at underperforming stores. High-performing locations and those showing improvement receive incentives, maintaining a consistent standard of service across the chain.
Ordering and Rewards Programs
Whataburger offers multiple ordering channels to accommodate customer preferences. Drive-thru service is a popular option, while in-store kiosks provide a self-service alternative. The chain has also embraced digital ordering through its mobile app and website.
The Whataburger Rewards program enhances customer loyalty. Members earn points for their purchases, which can be redeemed for free menu items. The program automatically converts previous visits to points for existing members, encouraging continued patronage.
Special promotions and exclusive offers are regularly available through the rewards program. This approach not only incentivizes repeat visits but also allows Whataburger to gather valuable data on customer preferences and behaviors, enabling more personalized marketing efforts.
Corporate Information
Whataburger’s corporate structure supports its extensive network of restaurants across multiple states. The company’s headquarters are located in San Antonio, Texas, where key business operations are managed.
Career Opportunities
Whataburger offers diverse career paths for individuals seeking employment in the fast-food industry. The company provides positions at various levels, from entry-level restaurant staff to corporate roles. Job seekers can explore opportunities in areas such as restaurant management, marketing, finance, and information technology.
Whataburger emphasizes employee development through training programs and advancement possibilities. The company’s career website features current job openings and allows candidates to apply online. Benefits for eligible employees may include health insurance, retirement plans, and educational assistance.
Community Involvement
Whataburger actively participates in community initiatives and charitable efforts. The company supports local organizations through its Whataburger Feeding Student Success program, which focuses on education and food insecurity.
The Whataburger Foundation contributes to various causes, including disaster relief and youth programs. Local franchises often engage in community events and sponsorships, reinforcing the company’s commitment to the areas it serves.
Whataburger encourages employee volunteerism and matches certain charitable donations made by its workforce. The company’s community involvement efforts aim to create positive impacts in the regions where it operates.
Market Position and Industry
Whataburger holds a strong position in the fast food industry, particularly in the Southern United States. The chain excels in the competitive burger market through its focus on quality and customization.
Competitive Landscape
Whataburger faces stiff competition from national and global fast food giants. Despite its regional focus, the chain has carved out a loyal customer base. Whataburger’s market share is limited compared to larger brands, but it maintains a strong presence in its core markets.
The company differentiates itself through made-to-order burgers using 100% pure American beef. This emphasis on freshness and customization helps Whataburger stand out in a crowded field.
Industry Trends
The fast food industry is evolving, with consumer preferences shifting towards healthier options and digital ordering. Whataburger has adapted by expanding its menu offerings and embracing technology.
Online ordering and delivery services have become increasingly important. Whataburger has invested in these areas to remain competitive.
The industry also sees a growing focus on sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients. Whataburger’s use of fresh, quality ingredients aligns with this trend, potentially giving it an edge in attracting environmentally-conscious consumers.
Navigating Whataburger Locations
Whataburger offers multiple ways to locate its restaurants across various states. Customers can easily find nearby outlets using city-based searches or zip code lookups.
Location Search by City
Whataburger’s website provides a user-friendly city search function. Users can enter their city name to view a list of nearby locations. Texas boasts the highest concentration of Whataburger restaurants, with over 700 outlets. Houston leads with 50+ locations, followed by San Antonio with 40+, and Dallas with 30+.
Major cities like Austin and Fort Worth feature 25+ and 20+ Whataburger locations respectively. This widespread presence ensures easy access for burger enthusiasts in urban areas.
Using Zip Codes to Find Nearby Outlets
For more precise results, customers can use zip codes to find the closest Whataburger. This method is particularly useful for those in suburban or rural areas. The search typically displays a list of nearby restaurants, including their addresses and distances.
Whataburger’s zip code search often provides additional information such as store hours, contact details, and available services like drive-thru or dine-in options. This feature helps customers plan their visits efficiently, especially when traveling to unfamiliar areas.