RISE - Menu Monitor

Arctic Circle Restaurants
Headquarters
411 West 7200 South Suite 200, Midvale, Utah 84047 USA
Tel: (801)561-3620 Fax: (801)561-9646
www.arcticcirclerest.com
Ownership: Private
Segment: Limited Service Hamburger
System Characteristics 2006 2005 2004
U.S. Systemwide Sales ($000) 55,200 53,200 49,000
Company-owned ($000) 21,400 19,600 18,200
Franchised ($000) 33,800 33,600 30,800
U.S. Number of Units 77 80 79
Company-owned 25 24 26
Franchised 52 56 53
International Sales ($000) - - -
International Units - - -
Average Sales/Unit ($000) 717 665 620
Concept Positioning |
Located mostly in the western United States, Arctic Circle Restaurants has enjoyed success in many different renderings: first
as a refreshment stand, then as a sandwich shop and later as a car lube and oil chain. Today, Arctic Circle has returned to
one of its original concepts—that of being a limited-service sandwich shop. In addition to sandwiches, the chain specializes in
Black Angus burgers, salads and sides, as well its signature chocolate-topped vanilla ice cream cone, dubbed the “Brown
Topper.” Known as a family-friendly, casual concept, Arctic Circle is run by Arctic Circle Restaurants Inc., which franchises
60% of its units.
Units are typically freestanding with seating for 100 customers. Restaurants offer dine-in as well as drive-thru service. Most
notably, many units feature a "Playzone," a colorful 750–1,000 sq.ft., two-story area where children play while their parents
eat. Arctic Circle is a longtime favorite of families with children, in fact the chain was the first quick-service chain in the U.S. to
offer a kids’ meal. In recent years, stores have been updated with a more contemporary look, including lighter color schemes
and new seating, all designed to increase the turn-around time for guests.
Arctic Circle Restaurants was founded in Salt Lake City, UT, in 1950 by Don Carlos Edwards. Franchising the Arctic Circle
name along with his products and equipment, Edwards was able to expand the Arctic Circle name quicker and more efficiently
than most of his competitors. After a venture in the vehicular lube-and-oil business, the company was acquired by Quaker
State Oil in 1985. In 1992, the restaurant was sold to former officers and shareholders in Arctic, William Gee and George
Morgan. There are more than 80 locations in operation. Growth has been primarily located in the West and Northwest,
including Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming and Utah. Long-term expansion plans
have not been disclosed.
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