TOMS RIVER, NJ – Twenty years ago, there were Roy Rogers restaurants all over New Jersey. Just a few years ago, there was only one left, located on Route 9 in Bayville.
The old Roy Rogers in Toms River, near the intersection of Fischer Boulevard and Route 37 is now a medical rehabilitation center.
A few years ago, the chain opened a second New Jersey location in Brick Township. Now, the company says it’s planning to continue revitalizing the brand that is beloved by many here at the Jersey Shore.
Here’s what happened.
Roy Rogers Restaurants, the western-themed quick-service restaurant chain, celebrated its 55th anniversary. Founded in 1968 by the Marriott Corporation in Falls Church, VA, the chain quickly gained popularity across the US.
Under the leadership of Pete Plamondon, Sr., the chain reached its peak with 648 operating stores. However, the brand was sold to Hardee’s, which then sold it to various other restaurant chains. The brand was bought by Pete Jr. and Jim Plamondon in the early 2000s, and they have spent the last two decades revitalizing the brand.
Jim Plamondon, Co-President of Roy Rogers, said, “We can honestly say that we have remained true to our guiding principle of authenticity over the 55 years. Our family values and strong belief in community are big factors in our success, in addition to our unbeatable food quality and menu offerings.”
Roy Rogers now has 41 locations across seven states, and the chain has invested in technology, design, and third-party partners to create an enjoyable environment for a new generation of customers and longstanding fans of the brand.
It is a popular brand in Maryland.
The brand is expanding. THey just announced ten new locations in Ohio.
Roy Rogers, a legacy brand that is striving for national success, announced the successful opening of its newest franchise location in Cleves, Ohio. This is the first of 10 Roy Rogers restaurants planned to open in Greater Cincinnati. The overwhelming support from the Cleves community led Roy Rogers to experience the best opening sales numbers to date.
Joe Briglia, Director of Real Estate and Franchise Development, said, “It is true now more than ever that Roy Rogers is primed for expansion, and I look forward to connecting with partners who align with our values-first mission and are curious how they can also blaze their trail with Roy Rogers.” Many Roy Rogers locations now feature electronic menu boards, an elevated drive-thru experience, and enhancements to support third-party delivery. All locations also launched the new Roy’s Rewards mobile app last year, hosting a powerful loyalty program and optimizing online sales opportunities.
As for New Jersey, the only place to get Roy Rogers is down the shore in Brick and Bayville. And it’s worth the trip if you’ve never experienced Roy Rogers.
For more information on Roy Rogers Restaurants and franchise opportunities, visit their website at www.royrogersrestaurants.com.