Wetson's

Defunct American fast-food chain

Logo of Wetson's

Wetson's was an American fast-food restaurant chain that operated from 1959 to 1975. It was known for its hamburgers, french fries, and milkshakes, and was a significant player in the fast-food industry during its time.

History

Wetson's was founded in 1959 by Herbert Wetanson and Leo Wetanson in New York City. The first restaurant was located in Levittown, New York, a suburb of Long Island. The chain quickly expanded throughout the Northeastern United States, particularly in the New York metropolitan area.

The concept of Wetson's was inspired by the success of McDonald's, and it adopted a similar business model focusing on quick service and low prices. Wetson's restaurants were characterized by their distinctive orange and white buildings and their "Big W" hamburgers, which were similar to the Big Mac offered by McDonald's.

Menu

Wetson's menu featured a variety of fast-food items, including:

• Big W Hamburger: A double-decker hamburger with lettuce, cheese, pickles, and a special sauce.
• French Fries: Crispy and golden, served in a paper sleeve.
• Milkshakes: Available in chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors.
• Fish Sandwich: A breaded fish fillet served with tartar sauce.
• Hot Dogs: Served with mustard, ketchup, and onions.

Marketing and Branding

Wetson's was known for its catchy slogan, "Buy a bagful," which encouraged customers to purchase multiple items. The chain also used a clown mascot named "Wetson," who was featured in various advertising campaigns.

The branding of Wetson's was designed to appeal to families and young people, with a focus on affordability and convenience. The restaurants often featured drive-thru service, which was a relatively new concept at the time.

Decline and Closure

Despite its initial success, Wetson's began to face stiff competition from larger chains like McDonald's and Burger King. By the early 1970s, the company was struggling financially, and many locations were closed or sold to competitors.

In 1975, Wetson's ceased operations entirely. Some of its locations were converted into other fast-food franchises, while others were demolished. The brand was unable to compete with the aggressive expansion and marketing strategies of its rivals.

Legacy

Although Wetson's is no longer in operation, it remains a nostalgic memory for many who grew up in the Northeastern United States during the 1960s and 1970s. The chain is remembered for its distinctive architecture, catchy slogans, and its role in the early days of the fast-food industry.

Related pages

• McDonald's
• Burger King
• Fast food restaurant
• History of fast food in the United States