Empower Named Media Agency of Record for Whataburger, Uniting Two Companies with Proud Southern Heritage

Empower Named Media Agency of Record for Whataburger, Uniting Two Companies with Proud Southern Heritage

Press Inquiries Contact:
Todd Ringler, Edelman PR
Todd.Ringler@edelman.com
+1 (617) 872-1235

Empower Media has been named the Media Agency of Record (AOR) for Whataburger, the beloved southern fast-food chain known for its bold flavors and distinctive Texas charm. This partnership marks a significant step forward for both Empower and Whataburger as they collaborate to elevate the brand’s presence to cut through in new markets.

As the new Media AOR, Empower will be responsible for leading Whataburger’s media strategy, planning, and buying across all channels. Empower’s deep understanding of consumer behavior, along with their track record of innovative media solutions, aligns with Whataburger’s goal to engage loyal fans while expanding into new regions.

Ashlee Clarke, CEO of Empower, shared her excitement about the new partnership, expressing a personal connection to Whataburger’s Texas heritage:
"Having grown up in the South, Whataburger has a special place in my heart. I’m thrilled to partner with such an iconic Texas brand to help them grow fearlessly. Together, we’re going to create something truly extraordinary that celebrates everything Whataburger stands for: bold flavor, authenticity, and a whole lot of Texas pride.”

“We are excited to be partnering with Empower as we continue to grow the Whataburger brand both in our core Texas market and across our 16-state footprint,” Alexandar Ivannikov, Chief Administrative Officer, said. “The team at Empower brings a strong expertise in connecting with customers across all channels and we look forward to leveraging their expertise as we continue growing the Whataburger brand to new markets.”

Founded in 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas, Whataburger has grown into a cultural institution, with millions of fans across the country. Empower, a Chicago-based agency known for its data-driven insights and creative approach to media, looks forward to being a growth partner for Whataburger, helping continue to expand its legacy through innovative campaigns and strategic media planning.

This partnership signals a bright future as two brands with deep roots in Southern values come together to make a lasting impact.

About Whataburger
Whataburger serves up Goodness 24/7. Our original recipes are made to order, just like you like it, and we pride ourselves on extraordinary hospitality and meaningful connections in our communities. That’s what’s led fans to Whataburger since Harmon Dobson served our first customer in 1950. Headquartered in San Antonio, we’ve stayed close to our roots while building systemwide revenue of more than $4 billion annually across our 16-state footprint and over 1,085 restaurants. Even with our exceptional menu, we know that people make the difference at Whataburger.

About Empower
Empower is America’s largest woman-owned agency. A true growth partner for brands, we empower our clients to Grow Fearlessly, to abandon inhibitions and reach new heights. We deliver results. And if that means finding a new way or creating a new process, we do it. From the day we opened in 1985, Empower has challenged the advertising status quo. Empower is led by powerhouse CEO, Ashlee Clarke. With her uncompromising drive and unparalleled vision, she sets a new standard for world-class agency work. A proud Southerner, Ashlee has the tenacity that has broken many glass ceilings, and the business experience to break new ground to help clients go where others feared to go.