Franchisee Voices: Aymen Ghabrial of Buffalo Wings & Rings

 

 

 I have been in the restaurant business for nearly 20 years. Before I came to the states, I obtained my bachelor’s degree in accounting and my MBA from universities in Egypt. At the age of 23, I relocated to the states and began working with Wells Fargo due to my background in accounting. I soon realized that the financial industry was not for me and decided to enter the food industry. I was hired by Sizzler USA in 2001 for a management position and was able to gain a lot of knowledge through the organization’s training program. I have been fortunate enough to have worked on the corporate and franchisee side of things which allowed me to become more familiar with how each side works and what they expect from each other. I was offered a higher management position with Real Mex restaurants (El Torito). During my journey with this specific organization I learned the fundamentals of the industry and really increased my experience.

 

I have been on both sides of the business. I know what it takes to create and keep successful relationships on the corporate side, but I also know how to run a business as a franchisee.

 

I was introduced to Buffalo Wings & Rings by an agent that was selling the location which I currently own. I had to do my homework before I invested my life savings in a new business venture. I did my research on many variables including the brand, the location and the demographics of the area. After a few visits to the location and meetings with the Buffalo Wings & Rings corporate executives, I realized how great they understand the market. I saw the potential of the brand and of course I wanted to be part of it.

 

After taking over this location, we did some extensive marketing and advertising in a local magazine. We became involved in many activities within our community and local high schools. At this point in time, we are working with Tera Vista Elementary School to implement a reward program to students who exceed expectations or read a certain number of books. Parents really appreciate this and at the same time it will help our business to be part of the community.

 

We have increased sales by $100,000 since we purchased this location. It's been a very successful year for me as a franchisee with Buffalo Wings and Rings* and I am looking forward to expanding with the brand and opening a second location in the near future.

 

We are looking at a few surrounding cities to open another location within the next year. We have loved being a part of the brand and want to continue to grow with them.