Fans of A&W, rejoice! A&W Malaysia’s latest outlet is bringing back the vibes and groove of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s when funk, soul, disco and classics ruled the airways. Now open at Seventeen Mall in Section 17, Petaling Jaya, the outlet – A&W Malaysia’s 49th – is quite unlike any other A&W restaurant in the country.
Commemorating its journey since becoming the first fast food restaurant to open in Malaysia in 1963, the new outlet which was built at an investment of RM1 million takes on a retro-themed concept – the first of its kind in Malaysia. Featuring a modern take on chic retro design, complete with booths and bar seats, it’s an Instagrammer’s heaven like no other!
In keeping with its nostalgic ambience, a Juke Box offers retro music for customers’ dining pleasure for that truly classic vibe. Able to accommodate more than 80 customers at any given time, there is also a Private Zone area which can accommodate up to 20 people for special functions such as birthday celebrations or parties.
Said George Ang, CEO of A&W Malaysia, “We are excited to bring this new retro concept A&W. Since 1963, Malaysians have grown up with the brand, having come to love our iconic menu items including our flavourful Coneys, tantalizing waffles and refreshing A&W RB. In recent times, Malaysians have also built a fond affinity with our newer signatures including the Mozza Burger and A&W Aroma® Chicken, made from fresh ingredients to ensure the highest quality of our offerings.
“This reflects our continued commitment to customers, which is demonstrated with this new retro concept store. We wanted to bring back the ‘good old days’ while at the same time cater to a younger and modern generation of consumers. While the new store will certainly have its unique appeal with the older generation, we believe that even millennials will find this store ‘instagram worthy’ and truly unique,” George added.
To prioritize safety for customers and staff, proper SOPs are practiced in the outlet including extensive sanitization procedures to ensure a safe and fun dining experience during the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO). This includes regular sanitization of tables, chairs, buzzers, trays and door handles. Customers who dine-in are encouraged to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. Temperature screenings are carried out at the entrance. Customers also receive sauce sachets as there will be no usage of the sauce counter. For those who would like to purchase a surgical mask during entry, they are available upon request with a charge of RM1, with all proceeds going to charity.
In 1963, A&W made Malaysian history when it became the first fast food restaurant to open in the country. For more than half a century, the brand has etched itself into the hearts of Malaysians with its famed and distinguished RB, floats, burgers, ice cream waffles and its beloved mascot, Rooty® The Great Bear. It would go on to be a brand with which Malaysians from all walks of life would grow to love, creating deeply rooted memories with friends and loved ones.
A pioneer in the Malaysian fast food industry, the brand now has conceptualised plans to leverage on its rich heritage and legacy in Malaysia to make a big comeback to relive its glory days, reclaiming the hearts and minds of a new generation of discerning consumers.
Currently, A&W operates a total of 49 outlets around the country including the latest Seventeen Mall outlet. Following the opening of this first retro concept store, a similar restaurant with a retro look and feel is also slated for opening in Ipoh Parade.