Anticipating The Need for Infrastructure During a Residential and Commercial Boom, A Hendersonville Man Opens MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes

According to Zillow, the Nashville area is the sixth-hottest housing market for 2022, with nearly two million residents and growing over 20% from 2010 to 2020. That’s why Rightmyer is investing in the local community by bringing two MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes* locations to Sumner County. Rightmyer is confident the major influx in population and the anticipated arrival of retail giant Costco will be the driving force for his success with MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes.

It’s no surprise to locals that companies seem to be flocking to Hendersonville, Tennessee, to set up shop, and while this is great news for the local economy, it’s also highlighting a need for more quality restaurant and dining options. Rightmyer is investing in MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes by bringing not just one location to Sumner County — but two. Rightmyer is confident this major influx in population and the anticipated arrival of retail giant Costco will be the driving force for his success with the better burger concept.

1851: What did you do before franchising?

Rightmyer: From the time I was 14 years old, I've been in the service industry. My first job was washing dishes by hand in a Chinese restaurant, followed by 15 years of restaurant experience from serving, bartending and cooking to managing a fine dining restaurant. An investor in that restaurant saw my talent for developing relationships and began mentoring me in his primary industry, senior living. Fast forward another 17 years, and I am a successful executive with multiple Senior Living Communities. I'm responsible for each community, which has multiple restaurants, health care employees, and management teams, but my passion has always been behind the line, behind the bar, and behind the scenes of making someone's dining experience special.

I’ve worked on behalf of many companies, including Life Care Services (LCS), Harmony Senior Services, and others.

1851: How did you initially learn about franchising?

Rightmyer: Listening to and reading business and financial books and podcasts have helped me learn about franchising.

1851: When did you start looking for a franchise? How long until you signed?

Rightmyer: Two and a half years ago. Signed in 2022. 

1851: How did you decide you wanted to be a franchisee?

Rightmyer: I originally wanted to start my own restaurant, but I was wary about building a brand new, untested model. I found myself much more comfortable with the franchising model. Then, my wife, Erin and I looked at our timetable. We analyzed our age, current stage of life, when and how we wanted to retire, and then began to develop a plan to get there. Franchising could give us the ability to plan for the future without many questions, and eventually, we saw the avenue to a passive income.

1851: How many brands did you look at?

Rightmyer: Around 100.

1851: What made you say yes to MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes?

Rightmyer: Erin was influential in me choosing MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes because she’s a very detail-oriented person and loves procedures. I knew I needed the simplicity of a system that would help us feel comfortable jumping in. I met the corporate team in Texas and had the opportunity to experience how they work together, understanding the structure from the top down. They all loved their jobs and where they were in the company. This sealed the deal for me, and they seemed like a family. It made me feel very comfortable saying yes to MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes.

1851: Why do you think Gallatin/Hendersonville has been or will be a good fit for the brand?

Rightmyer: Placing a new MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes in Hendersonville is an indicator of the growth of the Nashville area. We are seeing big players come into town, including Costco and an Amazon distribution center close to town, which has boosted the local infrastructure and growth, especially in multi-family complexes. For me, it’s a no-brainer when it comes to providing affordable food for the booming population.

1851: What makes you stand out as a unique business owner in the local community?

Rightmyer: I have extensive experience in different business models, including within restaurants, management, and the hospitality industry. These experiences have all led me to realize I could run my own franchise.

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? Plans for growth?

Rightmyer: In the long run, I’d like to expand my ownership in many different franchises and build a network of opportunities for others to work alongside us. Achieving work/life balance is also important to me.

1851: What do you do in your personal time (hobbies, family, sports, etc.)

Rightmyer: I’m actually a songwriter and have written for recording artists. Aside from that, I like to play golf and travel. Erin and I like to create experiences with our children; our three boys are growing up fast. Tucker is 13 years old, Silas is three, and Peirce Walker is four months old.