Schmandt Joined the Quick-Service Restaurant Franchise in 2023
A&W Restaurants, a popular quick-service restaurant franchise, has promoted COO and President Betsy Schmandt to CEO and president. Schmandt, who joined the QSR franchise in 2023, takes the reins from former CEO Kevin Bazner, who now will serve as chairman.
“It is an honor to lead this iconic brand. A&W Restaurants has a rich history that has brought a smile to so many people throughout its 105-year history. I’m deeply inspired by our franchise partners and their commitment to A&W’s legacy,” said Schmandt, a longtime fan of the restaurant brand. “I’m determined to elevate and enhance the A&W experience while continuing to build on our value proposition and provide quality that ‘floats’ above the rest.”
She said she’s excited about reinvigorating A&W for today’s customers. “The brand is so well loved, but we still have so much opportunity to grow with new restaurants and hone our restaurant experience.”
Bazner said Schmandt’s dedication to the QSR brand makes her a great fit for this role. “Since joining A&W, Betsy has quickly made an impact here by providing strategic direction, operational insights and innovative ideas to propel our brand ahead,” Bazner said.
A Collaborative Mindset
Schmandt previously served as the president of franchising at Famous Brands, overseeing Mrs. Fields and TCBY. She said this experience helped her develop broad-based management and business skills and fostered a collaborative mindset. “I frequently say franchising is a team sport,” Schmandt said. “Our departments need to work together and understand that we are only as successful as our franchise partners who understand, accept and implement new changes we imagine.”
She said her passion for food has kept her in the restaurant industry, and that A&W Restaurants has great potential to drive the sector forward. “We are committed to quality food, hospitality and environment. We want to raise the bar for QSRs.”
About A&W Restaurants
Founded in 1919, A&W Restaurants is famous for its root beer and high-quality all-American fare. The QSR franchise has expanded to 850-plus single-brand and co-branded locations in 35 U.S. states and Asia.
