Wetzel’s Pretzels has made its debut in Georgia through a new franchisee, bringing delicious pretzels to Augusta and the surrounding regions.
The company has been making headlines with its significant expansion into food trucks. With over 370 physical locations in the U.S., Canada, and Central America, Wetzel’s now operates 21 food trucks across the United States, equipped with the same bakery tools to serve a variety of pretzels, including jalapeno and cinnamon sugar flavors.
A recent addition to this mobile fleet is the food truck operating in Augusta, Georgia. Franchisees Troy and Nancy Akers, who previously ran a national cookie store, are now delivering Wetzel’s pretzels across Augusta and its nearby areas.
To gain insights into their experience as franchise owners and the distinctive challenges and opportunities presented by the food truck industry, Food Truck Operator conducted an email interview with the Akers.
Q: How did you first discover Wetzel’s Pretzels?
Nancy and Troy Akers: Our love for Wetzel’s Pretzels began during our visits to Disney World, where we would always stop at Disney Springs near the World of Disney store. On our latest trip, we decided to reach out to Wetzel’s to explore the possibility of bringing these fantastic pretzels to the Augusta area. We are proud to be franchisees of such an incredible brand.
Q: What is your background in food service?
Nancy and Troy Akers: We have previously owned and successfully operated a national cookie franchise. Additionally, we currently manage a full-service restaurant and bar within a newly opened indoor pickleball complex.
Q: What drew you to Wetzel’s Pretzels?
Nancy and Troy Akers: Pretzels are simply the ideal snack! They satisfy both salty and savory cravings, as well as those for sweet treats. Plus, offering the best lemonade and granitas makes for a fantastic product lineup to serve the community.
Q: What surprised you about the food truck industry?
Nancy and Troy Akers: We anticipated unique challenges with a food truck, but we underestimated the extensive planning necessary to run a mobile bakery. We were also amazed by the variety of events where customers wanted our presence, ranging from birthdays to bridal showers. It’s wonderful to be part of their special moments.
Q: What food offerings are available at Wetzel’s Pretzels?
Nancy and Troy Akers: Wetzel’s Pretzels features a diverse menu that includes soft baked pretzels, available with butter and salt or in sweet flavors like cinnamon sugar and almond crunch. We also provide pretzel bites for those seeking smaller snacks, along with savory options such as dog bites (mini hot dogs wrapped in pretzel dough) and pizza pretzels, which can be customized to include jalapenos. And we can’t forget beverages! We offer regular and strawberry lemonade, frozen lemonade, and granitas in flavors like blue raspberry and strawberry kiwi.
Q: How does the franchise assist you as franchisees?
Nancy and Troy Akers: Wetzel’s Pretzels has been incredibly supportive, making our partnership a true privilege. They provide two weeks of in-person training at their California headquarters, along with daily ongoing support, giving us all the resources we need to thrive.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Nancy and Troy Akers: We are thrilled to be part of the Wetzel’s Pretzels family and are eager to introduce these delightful pretzels to the Augusta community. We look forward to expanding the brand to multiple locations in Augusta and across the Southeast.
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