Franchisee Voices: Aymen Ghabrial Of Buffalo Wings & Rings

Aymen Ghabrial is the prime example of a dedicated entrepreneur living the American Dream.

At the young age of 23 and after completing his studies in Egypt, Ghabrial relocated to the states to create a name for himself. His hunger for business ownership led him to leave the financial industry and begin a career with Sizzler USA. Ghabrial’s work ethic and dedication allowed him to gain knowledge from both sides of the spectrum working as he worked as a corporate executive as well as a franchisee.  Ghabrial transitioned companies and soon began a management position with Real Mex restaurants (El Torito). 

Through Ghabrial’s research he was introduced to the Buffalo Wings & Rings brand by an agent who was selling the Rancho Cucamonga location. After a very successful year in business, Ghabrial has decided to expand with the brand to ensure everyone knows the quality of Buffalo Wings & Rings.

Elaborate on your background:

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 franchise sides of things, which allowed be to become more familiar of 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.

How did you hear about Buffalo Wings & Rings and why did you choose to get involved?

I was introduced to Buffalo Wings & Rings by an agent that was selling the location I now own. I had to do my homework before I invested my life savings in a new business venture. I did my research many variables including the brand, the location and the demographics of the area. After few visits to the location and meetings with The Buffalo Wings & Rings corporate executives, I realized how great they are in understanding the market.

I saw the potential of the brand and of course I wanted to be part of it.

What ties do you have with your local community and how do you plan to serve the community with your new business?

After taking over this location, we did some extensive marketing & 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 certain number of books etc., “Parents will appreciate that and in the same time it will help our business to be part of the community.”

We have increased sales by 100K in sales 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 expand with the brand and to open a second location in the near future.

What’s next for you and your business?

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. 

Visit the International Franchise Association’s @OurFranchise website for more stories of passionate local franchise owners, employees and their communities.