By Sondra Rodriguez, Student Reporter

Abilene’s very own Jack in the Box opened last week, and business is booming.

The franchise, based out of San Diego, is located at 2002 Overland Trail and opened Nov. 26, after more than a month of delays.

Rodney Thomas, area coach for the Abilene location, said no opening-day deals were offered to customers because of the challenges he faced to open the restaurant, but business is doing well in spite of that.

“We just had such a hard time getting everything ready to open that we decided not to do any special deals,” he said. “We just opened the doors, and it has been great.”

Donald Reedom, restaurant manager, said he is satisfied with the first week of business.

“I am very pleased with the way business is going,” he said. “I expect it to stay this way.”

The restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating; a drive-thru that is often backed up through the parking lot and onto Overland Trail; salads, chicken and burger meals, shakes, malts, fruit smoothies, tacos and a breakfast menu served all day. It also is open 24 hours a day.

Zack Cook, junior marketing finance major from Carrolton, is an avid Jack in the Box supporter and commented on his personal reasons for loving the franchise while enjoying a cheeseburger combo with no mustard and fries.

“It’s quick and it’s clean,” he said. “But what I really love about Jack in the Box is that you don’t leave smelling like Whataburger.”

Thomas said the student response has been great, particularly late at night.

“Most of the students come during the graveyard shift,” he said. “We see more adult community members during the day, but the students start coming in around five.”

Thomas said Abilene always has wanted and needed a Jack in the Box, which is why he is confident business will stay strong.