A Storied Past. A Bright Future. The story of Forward Corporation 95 Years of Forward Momentum 1920 - 1940 1925, Austin G. Forward, along with a partner, purchased the “Welcome Garage” in Standish, Mich. Their wives opened a small restaurant in the corner of the garage, which consisted of two tables and eight stools. Soon, people heading north knew it as one of the best service stops. In succeeding years, Austin Forward purchased his partner’s share of the business and went on to develop a network of Shell Stations in Arenac, Iosco and Ogemaw Counties. 1 2 3 4 5 Our Businesses A History of excellence in Michigan Forward Convenience Stores Known primarily for its convenience stores, Forward Corp owns and operates 26 Shell and 3 Marathon convenience stores across Central and Northern Michigan and the Thumb. Visit Website Subway Restaurants Forward Corporation owns and operates more Subway restaurants than any company in the state with 56 restaurants in 16 counties. View Locations Forward Energy A home energy supplier, Forward Energy offers propane, diesel, and fuel oil to homes, farms and businesses across 23 Michigan counties. Visit Website T.R. McTAGGART A full-service screen print/embroidery company located in Standish, Michigan primarily serving tourism destinations like resorts, souvenir shops, museums, and national parks. Kristin & Company Candles, a hand-crafted soy candle brand, is offered through T.R. McTaggart. Visit Website Forward Conference Center & Hotels The beautiful Quality Inn and Forward Conference Center in West Branch can accommodate up to 250 guests and offers on-site catering. Forward Corporation also owns and operates two Super 8 Motels in West Branch and Houghton Lake. Visit Forward Conference Center Visit Quality Inn Visit Super 8 West Branch Visit Super 8 Houghton Lake LumberJack Food & Spirits A popular tourist stop, the LumberJack restaurant in West Branch, Mich takes you back to the days of logging yore with unique décor and delicious food with LumberJack-sized portions. Visit Website Ideal Party Store One of the area’s premier beer, wine, and spirits providers, Ideal Party Store of Bay City has been providing great service and selection since its founding in 1934. Forward Corp. also owns and operates Shamrock Dairy Bar, which is adjacent to the Johnston St. Ideal location. Visit Website HOME ABOUT OUR BUSINESSES GIVING CAREERS CONTACT