Whataburger is set to expand its footprint in North Carolina with several new locations scheduled to open in 2025.
Why It Matters: For years, rumors have swirled around the Texas-based chain, famous for its large burgers, spicy ketchup, and limited-edition menu items, making its way into the Charlotte market. The company has now confirmed the exact locations and projected timelines for its first North Carolina openings.
The new Whataburger locations will include:
- Gastonia (3415 E Franklin Blvd.) — Late spring
- Charlotte (12935 Albemarle Road) — Early summer
- Hickory (2060 US Hwy 70 S.E.) — Early summer
- Indian Land (8574 Charlotte Hwy.) — Mid-summer
- Winston-Salem (291 Harvey St.) — Late summer
- Greensboro (address forthcoming) — Late summer
- High Point (2713 N Main St.) — Early fall
- Archdale (10118 N Main St.) — Fall
Details on the Expansion: All stores are under construction and will feature modern designs, double drive-thru lanes, and digital conveniences like curbside ordering. Whataburger locations will be open 24/7, serving breakfast from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m.
In preparation for this move, the company has been engaging with local officials and community leaders in North Carolina.
Whataburger also established a meat plant in Atlanta to ensure a steady supply of fresh beef for the new locations.
The company first confirmed its expansion into North Carolina last year, shortly after filing a trademark lawsuit against local restaurants using similar names, according to WBTV.
The Bigger Picture: Whataburger’s growth in the Southeast continues, following its successful launch in South Carolina in 2024. When the company opened in Boiling Springs, customers lined up the night before, with long lines continuing for the next two days.
The choice of locations in North Carolina reflects the company’s strategy of finding prime real estate. According to CEO Debbie Stroud, the development path follows I-85 through South Carolina and into North Carolina, a region known for its growing cities and family-friendly atmosphere. “It’s an attractive part of the country. We’ve got flourishing growth and cities,” Stroud told Axios.
She added that the state’s family-oriented environment was another factor in choosing North Carolina, as Whataburger positions itself as a community hub.
Stroud also noted the company’s careful approach to expansion: “We get a lot of requests from around the country, but we’re selective about the pace and where we want to go.”
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