Four Retro Concepts Point To Johnny Rockets’ Future

Johnny Rockets, which already boasts a retro design and menu, is now developing four new prototypes under its Route 66 brand. At least one of the concepts—drive-in, drive-through, food truck and pop-up—is likely to debut by year’s end.

The burger chain, through a strategic partnership with USA Drive-Ins, a film production and distribution company, will open the drive-in concept at 200 new family-friendly drive-in movie locations. The pop-up prototype, which combines a theater and mobile restaurant, also will be part of the USA Drive-Ins partnership. The drive-through concept will target regional travel plazas, while the Route 66 food trucks are meant for use by current store operators at catering and community events.

Johnny Rockets, which has about 300 corporate and franchise-owned restaurants in 30 states and 16 countries, was acquired by Sun Capital Partners last year. It is based in Aliso Viejo, Calif.