ALPENA — The fast-food chain Hot ‘n’ Now, once beloved for its affordable prices and tasty offerings, is poised to make a return to Michigan.
Known for its simple, budget-friendly menu, Hot ‘n’ Now grew to prominence before facing widespread closures across the country. The last remaining location of the chain currently operates in Sturgis, Michigan.
Now, local developer Jeff Konczak, in partnership with Gun Lake Investments, plans to revive the brand. Konczak announced on Tuesday that his team has acquired the Hot ‘n’ Now franchise and aims to bring the restaurant back to life with new locations opening in Michigan.
The first two new Hot ‘n’ Now restaurants will open later this year — one in Alpena and the other near the Gun Lake Casino.
These new locations will feature the iconic drive-through format that made the original Hot ‘n’ Now locations so popular, and they will be housed in B Cubed structures built in Alpena.
Konczak plans to roll out additional locations nationwide after refining the concept with these initial openings. He hopes to bring the chain back to its former glory and eventually franchise it to other developers across the country.
The new Hot ‘n’ Now locations are positioned to take advantage of the current economic climate. Konczak emphasized that the brand’s appeal lies in its affordability, convenience, and quality. The prices at the new locations will be lower than most competitors in the fast-food industry.
Sticking with its roots, the menu will remain simple, offering only burgers, fries, and fountain drinks, with no custom sandwich options or variations in portion sizes. This streamlined menu will allow Hot ‘n’ Now to keep prices low, catering to those on tight budgets or those looking for a quick, inexpensive meal on the go.
Konczak highlighted that the restaurant is ideal for people seeking affordable fast food without the high prices of other chains or sit-down restaurants. “The Hot ‘n’ Now brand has a multi-decade history of providing value to consumers and their families,” he said. “We’re excited to partner with Gun Lake Investments, as they share our vision of making affordable food accessible to families across the country.”
The Hot ‘n’ Now brand has had a turbulent past. After changing ownership several times, it went bankrupt in 2004 following operational and marketing changes that ultimately impacted the chain’s viability. Konczak, however, is optimistic that the use of modern technology and efficient practices will restore the brand to its former success.
Monica King, CEO of Gun Lake Investments, also expressed excitement about the acquisition. “We are thrilled to announce the brand acquisition and the opening of new locations alongside our great partner,” King said. “Our teams share a passion for innovation and a commitment to success, and we are eager to take Hot ‘n’ Now to the next level.”
The distinctive look of Hot ‘n’ Now’s original buildings, characterized by their small footprint and tall, slanted roofs, will also be making a return. The new B Cubed structures will be customized to mirror this iconic design, maintaining the brand’s recognizable presence.
As Hot ‘n’ Now gears up for its grand return, the fast-food world will be watching to see if the chain can recapture the hearts of old fans while attracting a new generation of customers.
Related topics:
- Fast-Food Chains Roll Out Budget-Friendly Meal Deals to Counter Inflation
- World-Famous Taco Bell in Pacifica Reopens After Renovations
- Local Chick-fil-A Adjusts Service Due to Cold Weather