Schlotzsky's facts for kids
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![]() "The Original", Schlotzsky's signature sandwich
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Subsidiary | |
Industry | Restaurants |
Genre | Fast food |
Founded | 1971Austin, Texas, U.S. | in
Founders | Don and Dolores Dissman |
Headquarters | 200 Glenridge Point Pkwy, Suite 200,
Atlanta, Georgia
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U.S.
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Number of locations
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330+ |
Area served
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United States |
Key people
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William Armstrong (President) Megan Thomas (VPM) Randy Hayworth (VPO) |
Products | Sandwiches, pizzas, salads, calzones, soups |
Parent | Focus Brands |
Schlotzsky's is a popular American restaurant chain. It is famous for its unique sandwiches and pizzas. The company's main office is in Atlanta, Georgia.
Schlotzsky's has over 330 locations across the United States. Most of these restaurants are in the southern and southwestern parts of the country. However, the company is growing and opening new places in other areas too. Schlotzsky's is also part of a larger group of brands called Focus Brands.
Contents
The Story of Schlotzsky's
Starting with "The Original" Sandwich
Schlotzsky's began in 1971 in Austin, Texas. A couple named Don and Dolores Dissman opened a small shop. Their first and only menu item was a special sandwich called "The Original."
This sandwich was made with different meats, cheeses, and black olives. It was served on a freshly baked, toasted bun. The idea for "The Original" came from a type of sandwich called a muffuletta.
New Owners and More Choices
By 1981, Schlotzsky's had grown to 100 franchise stores. That year, some real estate investors bought the company. They were John and Jeff Wooley and Gary Bradley.
The Wooley brothers later took over the chain completely. They decided to add more items to the menu. Soon, customers could enjoy specialty pizzas, toasted wraps, salads, and soups.
Challenges and Changes
Schlotzsky's continued to grow, reaching its peak in 2001 with 759 stores. However, after this, sales started to slow down. In 2004, the company faced some financial difficulties.
To help the company, new leaders were brought in. The Wooley brothers eventually left the board of directors. Later that year, Schlotzsky's had to go through a legal process to reorganize its business.
A Fresh Start and New Look
After this, a company called Bobby Cox Companies bought Schlotzsky's. Under new management, the company worked hard to improve its restaurants. They made the menu simpler and stronger.
In 2006, Focus Brands bought Schlotzsky's. Focus Brands also owns other well-known chains like Moe's Southwest Grill, Carvel, Cinnabon, and Auntie Anne's.
With Focus Brands, Schlotzsky's began a big makeover. They updated their restaurants with a new, bright, and modern design. They also improved their menus and added items from Cinnabon. This new look was called "Lotz Better."
Catchy Slogans
Schlotzsky's has used several fun slogans over the years. Their current slogan, launched in 2021, is "It's a mouthful."
Some past slogans include:
- "All 'Round, Lotz Better"
- "Lotz Better"
- "Every Bite Lotz Better"
- "Funny name. Serious sandwich"
- "No substituteskys"
- "Just one sandwich, it's that good."