Buffalo Wild Wings, alternatively referred to as B-Dubs, is a renowned American establishment specializing in casual dining and sports bar experiences. It has gained significant popularity as a franchise. Founded in 1982, the franchise has grown to over 1,200 locations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Philippines. In this article, we will explore the history of Buffalo Wild Wings, its franchise opportunities, and the potential earnings for franchise owners.
History of Buffalo Wild Wings
Buffalo Wild Wing’s was founded in 1982 by Jim Disbrow and Scott Lowery in Columbus, Ohio. The two friends were craving authentic Buffalo-style chicken wings and couldn’t find any in their area. So, they decided to open their own restaurant, originally called Buffalo Wild Wing’s & Weck, serving wings and beef on weck sandwiches.
The restaurant quickly gained popularity and expanded to multiple locations in Ohio. In 1991, the franchise was sold to Sally Smith and her husband, who changed the name to Buffalo Wild Wing’s Grill & Bar. Under their leadership, the franchise continued to grow and expand to new locations across the country.
In 2018, Buffalo Wild Wings was acquired by Inspire Brands, a multi-brand restaurant company, for $2.9 billion. Today, Buffalo Wild Wings is known for its signature wings and sauces, as well as its lively sports bar atmosphere.
Franchise Opportunities
Buffalo Wild Wings offers franchise opportunities for individuals interested in owning their own restaurant. The franchise is looking for experienced restaurant operators with a passion for the brand and a strong understanding of the local market.
To become a Buffalo Wild Wing’s franchisee, you must have a minimum net worth of $1.5 million and liquid assets of at least $750,000. The initial franchise fee is $50,000, and the total investment for a new franchise ranges from $1.8 million to $3.5 million.
The franchise also offers a conversion program for existing restaurant owners looking to convert their current establishment into a Buffalo Wild Wing’s location. The conversion program has a lower initial franchise fee of $25,000 and a total investment of $1.4 million to $2.8 million.
Benefits of Owning a Buffalo Wild Wing’s Franchise
Owning a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise comes with many benefits, including:
Established Brand and Proven Business Model
As a franchise owner, you will benefit from the established brand and proven business model of Buffalo Wild Wing’s. The franchise has a loyal customer base and a strong reputation for its delicious wings and lively atmosphere. This can help attract customers and drive sales for your franchise.
Comprehensive Training and Support
Buffalo Wild Wing’s provides comprehensive training and support for its franchisees. This includes a 12-week training program for new franchisees and ongoing support from a dedicated franchise business consultant. The franchise also offers marketing and advertising support to help promote your location.
Multiple Revenue Streams
In addition to its signature wings, Buffalo Wild Wing’s also offers a variety of other menu items, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. This allows franchise owners to have multiple revenue streams and appeal to a wider range of customers.
Strong Sports Bar Atmosphere
Buffalo Wild Wings is known for its lively sports bar atmosphere, making it a popular destination for sports fans. This can help attract customers and create a fun and energetic atmosphere for your franchise.
Potential Earnings for Franchise Owners
The potential earnings for a Buffalo Wild Wing’s franchise owner can vary depending on factors such as location, sales, and operating costs. However, according to the franchise’s 2020 Franchise Disclosure Document, the average annual sales for a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise were $3.2 million.
The franchise also reports that the average franchisee-owned restaurant had an average cash flow of $1.1 million in 2019. However, it’s important to note that these numbers are not a guarantee of earnings and can vary based on individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Buffalo Wild Wings is a popular American casual dining restaurant and sports bar franchise with a strong brand and proven business model. With its comprehensive training and support, multiple revenue streams, and strong sports bar atmosphere, owning a Buffalo Wild Wing’s franchise can be a lucrative opportunity for experienced restaurant operators.
If you’re interested in becoming a Buffalo Wild Wing’s franchisee, be sure to thoroughly research the franchise and its requirements before making a decision. With the right qualifications and a passion for the brand, owning a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise could be a rewarding and profitable venture.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Potential franchisees are advised to conduct thorough research and seek professional advice before making any decisions regarding franchising opportunities. The information provided here is based on publicly available sources and should not be considered as financial or legal advice.
For more information, visit : www.buffalowildwings.com
