June 5 — Both Wendy’s franchises in Aiken have had new ownership since June 3.
JAI Restaurant Group, based in Pompano Beach, Fla., will manage the Wendy’s restaurants located on Richland Avenue and Whiskey Road, and will renovate the restaurants.
The renovations include the installation of digital menu boards and other interior and exterior changes that should make them look like other modern Wendy’s, said Ana Adarmes, JAI’s marketing manager.
Adarmes also said JAI is a unique fast food franchisee because of its rapid growth and standards.
The restaurant group acquired 20 Taco Bell locations in Atlanta in 2023.
JAI offers workers sales incentives; if an establishment sells enough of a menu item, employees receive a bonus.
“It’s not just about growth,” Adarmes said. “But to make our employees happy. Make sure they feel like they’re working for a company they really want to work for.”
The new franchise owners plan to increase their community outreach, particularly to local schools, including hosting fundraisers and team sponsorships.
Adarmes said JAI will manage more than 100 Wendy’s and Taco Bells, primarily in the Southeast, by the end of 2024.
The franchisee manages approximately 4,000 employees across all of its restaurants.
“We strive to remain leaders in the nation’s evolving fast food industry by providing our customers with an exceptional experience of quality, service and cleanliness through high quality food, friendly staff, standards high operational standards and commitment to our communities,” said Jhonny, President of JAI. Mercado said in a press release. “JAI looks forward to expanding Wendy’s presence and positively impacting communities across the country.”
