Sonic franchise holder abandons Niagara Falls expansion
Sonic Drive-In’s anticipated expansion into Niagara Falls has been halted due to unresolved disagreements between the franchise holder and the property owner. The $2.5 million project aimed to establish a new Sonic location on Military Road at the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA.
Kevin DiPirro, the franchisee responsible for Sonic’s operations in Western New York, revealed that the project’s cancellation stemmed from the property owner’s refusal to permit necessary environmental testing. DiPirro stated, “They would not allow environmental testing of any kind,” despite offering to assume all remediation responsibilities.
The proposed site, previously occupied by Red Lobster and later Honey’s Pizza, has seen multiple redevelopment attempts falter, including a 2017 plan for a $2.5 million Mercado Hip City food hall.
DiPirro, who operates three Sonic locations in Buffalo, Cheektowaga, and Erie, Pennsylvania, and holds rights for up to eight Sonic establishments in the region, has no immediate plans to seek alternative locations in Niagara County.
Sonic Drive-In, renowned for its unique drive-in experience featuring roller-skating carhops and a diverse menu, continues to explore expansion opportunities in various markets.
