Buffalo Wings & Rings reports most successful year in company history

Buffalo Wings & Rings had their most successful year in company history in 2014 thanks in part to an unprecedented development incentive of $30,000 off their franchise fee as a celebration of the brand’s 30^th anniversary. As 2015 quickly approaches, there are many steps that the brand has made to ensure their continued growth and momentum throughout the next year. The Midwest is a major growth market for the Cincinnati-based brand, and the corporate team has taken steps to prepare for continued growth in this booming sector, as well as in other areas across the country. To do so, they have focused on promoting experienced members within the existing team. “We are promoting from within to help support our franchisees as they open and grow in their individual markets,” said Philip Schram, Executive VP of Development. “We have shown our new and existing franchisees that we will support them with designated franchise business managers who can provide them with personal advice in operating efficiently, profitably, and being available at any time to them.” An example of this is how the Buffalo Wings & Rings team recently took one of their top performing team members from Columbus, Ohio and promoted them to the role of opening manager. Individuals that have experience and the strategic mindset for openings will be very important members of the corporate team as the brand increases their number of openings heading into 2015. Having enhanced aid and assistance from the corporate team has hit home with existing franchisees, who account for 50% of the new deals signed during 2014 and who understand the importance of corporate support when opening a second location. This support, along with the franchise discount of $30,000 has propelled the brand to the next level this year. There were a total of seven new deals signed in 2014, and with continued discussions taking place in the final weeks of December, Schram believes that number could reach as many as 12 before the close of the year. “2014 was a big year for us, but we have no signs of slowing down in 2015,”said Schram. “Our goal is to sign 15 deals next year and bring our family-friendly environment and high quality food to new markets who have never experienced our brand before.” The brand plans to ride the momentum in to 2015, and backed by a focused effort on creating a family-friendly environment with a superior menu and welcoming atmosphere to watch a game, Buffalo Wings & Rings expects to end their 31^st year even stronger than their 30^th.