By John Underwood / john@gulfcoastmedia.com
ROBERTSDALE, Alabama — The Arby’s in Robertsdale was demolished after close of business June 18 and plans immediately got underway to rebuild the structure, according to city officials.
“That was originally built as a Ward’s,” said Mayor Charles Murphy, “so the structure was over 35 years old.”
Murphy said Beavers Inc., which owns the local franchise, submitted plans to rebuild the structure about three months ago and it should take about three months to complete the new structure.
“They should re-open right after Labor Day,” Murphy said.
Founded by Leroy and Forrest Raffel in Boardman, Ohio, the company celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014, opening its first franchise in 1965.
After the two companies merged in 2008, Arby’s split with Wendy’s in 2011, acquired by an affiliate of Atlanta-based Roark Capital Group.
Locally there are 21 locations throughout Baldwin and Mobile counties, Atmore and the Florida Panhandle, including locations in Bay Minette, Loxley, Fairhope, Daphne and Gulf Shores.
The Gulf Shores location closed earlier this year and recently reopened after being completely renovated.
A message left with Arby’s public relations department has yet to be returned.
For more information visit arbys.com.