News Summary
Whataburger announces its expansion into the Carolinas with plans to open a restaurant in Gastonia, North Carolina on May 29, 2025. This marks the Texas-based chain’s entry into the southeastern U.S., generating excitement among local residents as they prepare for the grand opening. The Gastonia location will operate 24 hours a day, offering breakfast from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. In addition, Whataburger plans a second location in Rock Hill, South Carolina by early 2026, as part of a broader plan to establish up to 30 restaurants in the region.
Gastonia, North Carolina – Whataburger is expanding its operations into the Carolinas, with plans to open its first restaurant in North Carolina on May 29, 2025. The new location will be situated at 3415 E Franklin Blvd., Gastonia, NC 28056. This development marks a significant step for the Texas-based burger chain as it aims to establish its presence in the southeastern United States.
Preparations for the opening have already stirred excitement among local residents. A private pre-opening event recently drew long lines, indicating strong interest from the community. It is anticipated that on opening day, customers may queue outside the restaurant for more than a day, eager to be among the first to experience Whataburger’s offerings. In an effort to promote customer engagement, the first 100 diners at the Gastonia location on opening day will be rewarded with exclusive Whataburger swag bags.
Once operational, the Gastonia restaurant will run 24 hours a day, providing a selection of breakfast items from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. and burgers around the clock. The strategic choice of location, situated along a busy road off Dave Lyle Boulevard, positions the restaurant near other popular establishments like Chick-Fil-A and Ginza Buffet, potentially increasing foot traffic and customer attraction.
In addition to the Gastonia restaurant, Whataburger has plans to open another location in Rock Hill, South Carolina, at the former O’Charley’s restaurant site (2265 Cross Pointe Dr, Rock Hill, SC 29730) by early 2026. This expansion is part of a larger strategy that aims to establish approximately 30 total Whataburger locations across both North and South Carolina. By the end of 2025, it is projected that Whataburger will have 10 restaurants in North Carolina and at least one in Indian Land, South Carolina.
The Texan chain is known for its classic American fare, specializing in burgers and breakfast dishes. Whataburger’s regional growth in the Carolinas is headed by Preston Hughes, who has been appointed as the growth market leader for South Carolina.
Whataburger has previously made its debut in South Carolina, with its first restaurant opening in Boiling Springs in July 2024. The rapid expansion in the Carolinas reflects the company’s ambition to penetrate new markets and expand its footprint beyond its traditional base in Texas.
Social media will play a pivotal role in the company’s marketing strategy as it prepares for the grand openings. Whataburger is actively utilizing platforms like Instagram (@whataburger) to promote its locations, generating buzz among potential customers while encouraging them to visit the new restaurants.
This expansion is a significant move for Whataburger, which looks to capture the taste and preference of a new audience in the Carolinas. The upcoming establishments are expected to provide fresh dining options for residents and contribute to the local economies.
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: New Restaurants Opening
- Wikipedia: Whataburger
- Charlotte Magazine: Mazi in South End
- Google Search: Whataburger expansion
- Power 98 FM: New Restaurants in Charlotte
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant Expansion
- Eater Carolinas: Best New Restaurants
- Google News: Charlotte food scene
- Charlotte Magazine: 50 Best Restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
