Austin’s Daily Commentary – President And CEO Of Waffle House, Walt Ehmer, Passes Away

Austin: No doubt they are two of the most successful restaurant franchises in American history, and they're both based in Atlanta. That's right, Waffle House and Chick-fil-A.

I've often said that if you have a well-run Waffle House or Chick-fil-A, it is failure-proof. Never seen either one of those restaurants, when run by professionals and a great staff, take a downturn.

This weekend we hear of the loss of Walt Ehmer, the president and CEO of Waffle House, dead at the age of 58 after an extended illness. John Patrick was talking a little earlier this morning about one of the founders of Chick-fil-A coming to Augusta and speaking that was Tom Forkner.

You know, Waffle House was founded back in 1955, a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week diner. It was unique at the time. The iconic yellow sign has more than 1900 locations in 25,000, excuse me, 25 states with over 40,000 employees all across the Southeastern United States.

It really is an amazing franchise. And again, the work ethic, the menu, it's probably going to be what it's most known for. But the work ethic of its staffers is really, really something. That 24-hour service most of the time with a great smile and wonderful efficiency.

Walt Ehmer, losing him too soon at the age of 58. What an amazing success story. He has been the latest in a great line of leaders for Waffle House. A true Georgia favorite. A true American favorite.

God bless that company. May it long continue with its sister franchise, not related only through spiritual kinship, Chick-fil-A. Two of the greatest restaurant franchises in American history based right here in Georgia. And that's the comment. I'm Austin Rhodes, 95.1 FM News Talk WGAC.