Sonic

Highlights:

• FREESTANDING SONIC DRIVE-IN PROPERTY IN FLORIDA
• LONG TERM, ABSOLUTE NNN LEASE: ULTIMATE EASE OF MANAGEMENT FOR INVESTOR
• SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION: FRONTAGE AND MULTIPLE ACCESS POINTS TO HIGHLY TRAFFICKED FL-19 HIGHWAY (24,500 VPD)
• PAD TO PALATKA MALL: ADJACENT TO HOME DEPOT & LOWE’S
• DRIVE-THRU EQUIPPED PROPERTY ON LARGE 1.14-ACRE PARCEL
• PALATKA, FL: ONE OF THE TOP RESIDENTIAL MARKETS AND ECONOMIES IN THE UNITED STATES
• SITUATED ON HIGHWAY 19 CORRIDOR BETWEEN 3 MAJOR FLORIDA CITIES
• SONIC DRIVE-IN: ICONIC NATIONAL FAST FOOD BRAND

Description:

Florida Broker of Record: Scott A. Deyoung... FL BK 3421401

Faris Lee Investments is pleased to present a rare opportunity to acquire a free-standing Sonic Drive-In located in Palatka, Florida. The subject property is ideally positioned on a signalized hard corner facingFL-19 Highway, the main retail corridor in Palatka, offering strong visibility, ease of access & convenience and steady consumer traffic. The restaurant sits as a pad to the Palatka Mall, benefitting from strong co-tenancy with national retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., and Harbor Freight Tools. Clearwater Franchise Group, a top Sonic franchisee, will sign a 15-year absolute NNN lease with fixed rental increases every five years at the close of escrow This Sonic Drive-In property is an ideal investment opportunity for a passive or out-of-state investor looking for a QSR asset with proven sales and excellent real estate fundamentals combined with long term security and zero landlord responsibilities.
Sonic Drive-In is a well-established, nationally recognized brand known for its drive-in model and high-volume drive-thru service. The unique format keeps demand strong all day, from morning coffee runs to late-night snacks. The brand has proven resilient through economic cycles and operates under Inspire Brands, the parent company of Arby’s, Dunkin’, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Jimmy John’s. With an average unit volume exceeding $1.8 million, Sonic continues to perform well across the country, making it a solid tenant for long-term real estate investment.
This Sonic Drive-In is in a prime location sitting at the signalized hard corner along FL-19 (24,500 VPD), providing excellent exposure and access. Palatka sits along a key corridor connecting Gainesville (37 miles), Jacksonville (45 miles), and Orlando (75 miles), making it a growing hub for residents and businesses. The area has over 32,500 residents within a 5-mile radius, with Putnam County’s population expected to grow 7.5% by 2030. The property is adjacent to Palatka Mall, a high-traffic retail and service center, and near St. Johns River State College (6,750+ students), further boosting customer traffic. Florida’s economy continues to outpace the national average, with 21.9% real GDP growth from 2019 to 2024. With no state income tax, a business-friendly environment, and increasing demand for commercial real estate, this Sonic Drive-In offers investors a strong foothold in a high-growth market.

Palatka, the county seat of Putnam County in northeastern Florida, is situated along the St. Johns River, approximately 50 miles south of Jacksonville. Established as a trading post in the early 19th century, the city’s name is derived from the Seminole term “Pilatka,” meaning “crossing over” or “cows’ crossing,” reflecting its historical role as a river crossing point. Over time, Palatka evolved into a significant transportation hub, especially during the steamboat era, and later developed industries in lumber and citrus.
Today, Palatka is recognized for its rich cultural heritage and abundant natural beauty. The city boasts numerous parks and nature preserves, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and paddling. Notable attractions include the Ravine Gardens State Park, known for its azaleas and camellias, and the Riverfront Park, which provides scenic views of the St. Johns River. The downtown area features historic architecture, colorful murals depicting the area’s history, and a variety of local shops and restaurants, including Angel’s Dining Car, Florida’s oldest diner.
Palatka hosts several annual events that celebrate its community spirit and traditions. The Florida Azalea Festival, held in March, showcases the vibrant blooms that adorn the city, while the Blue Crab Festival in May offers seafood, live music, and family-friendly activities. These festivals, along with the city’s commitment to preserving its historical sites and promoting outdoor recreation, make Palatka a charming destination for both residents and visitors.