close
close
News Update

Watertown expands its dining options with the opening of Wendy’s

Jasper
Watertown expands its dining options with the opening of Wendy’s

Jarrett Bies
| Specifically for Watertown Public Opinion

Watertown’s wide reach — the largest city within a 100-mile radius — made it an attractive destination for South Dakota’s newest Wendy’s restaurant, which opened Aug. 10 at 937 5th St. SE.

What prompted Watertown to open a restaurant that is rather unusual in South Dakota?

Location and accessibility, say experts who follow trends and keep an eye on the city’s economic development.

“The market in this area is strong, strong enough that franchises in the food industry know we’re a great location,” said Chris Clifton, managing director of Watertown Development Company. “Access is everything when it comes to development. We offer great access.”

Wendy’s was founded in 1969. With this newest store in Watertown, it continues a growth trend spanning more than 50 years. For the second quarter of 2024, the $3.51 billion company reported growth of about 2%. There are more than 7,100 Wendy’s stores worldwide.

“From medical services to Lake Kampeska, businesses know what we have in Watertown – this commercial center,” Clifton said. “We continue to see growth in all sectors. This is another remarkable example of that growth and how it’s stimulating all sectors.”

More: New Watertown thrift store donates to charity and community

Clifton said manufacturing growth of over 30% is not unusual for Watertown.

Wendy’s classics include:

  • The Frosty (an ice cream-like dessert)
  • Wendy’s Chili
  • Never frozen burgers, including the Baconator
  • Baked potatoes

Watertown is experiencing a surge in economic development

“Watertown’s new Prairie Lakes Ice Arena, Prairie Lakes Wellness Center and our Premier Softball Complex seem to be well attended,” said Tim Sheehan, president and CEO of the Watertown Chamber of Commerce. “This also helps keep our hotels and restaurants open.”

Sheehan said when something new comes out, it’s fun to try it out. He said Wendy’s cheaper combo meals would likely attract customers, and other competitors couldn’t compete with the $5 price tag.

“We expect more hotels to be built near the new ice rink complex,” he said. “I’m sure the developers are having a lot of discussions to attract the next big retailer as well.”

Sheehan said the Anza Soccer Complex is another attraction for many people.

Clifton added that the wave of growth in the manufacturing sector could also provide a boost to smaller companies.

“We’re going to see more and more small shops opening as young entrepreneurs take their chance to get their business off the ground,” he said. “It’s only natural that a family coming into town for hockey, football or a doctor’s appointment is going to be hungry. Now they have another national choice, even with our smaller population.”

Nationally, only about 12% of new franchises are opened in communities with populations between 10,000 and 50,000.

“We’re always excited when a new business begins its journey to Watertown,” Sheehan said. “It’s nice to see the state’s 10th Wendy’s in operation here.”

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *