Shuckin’ Shack, a casual oyster bar franchise that started in North Carolina, had its most profitable year-to-date in 2021, and Jonathan Weathington, CEO, said recently that the brand expects this year to be just as successful. A major reason business is booming is the restaurant’s bar-forward concept, which brings in about 30% of its revenues from alcohol sales. 

“The Shuckin’ Shack bar experience was predominantly the focus of the business when it started,” said Co-founder Matt Piccinin. While he and business partner Sean Cook wanted to capitalize on the unique casual seafood market, serving oysters, crabs and mussels in a laid-back environment, the beverage side of the business was also important to them. In the brand’s early days, the sales were about 70% alcohol and 30% food. While it has since flipped, the company still sees how well the model works — thirsty customers often become hungry customers.  

“The bar is the backbone of Shuckin’ Shack,” said Piccinin. “When we opened, we were more focused on selling alcohol. That’s where the greatest margins are. Sean and I still go to the locations on a daily basis to hang out with locals because we’ve created a sense of community.”

Post-pandemic, the bar industry has seen customers come back with enthusiasm. Alcohol consumption nationwide spiked during lockdown, and since restrictions were lifted and people can gather with friends and loved ones again, many are eager to do so and give business to their favorite local bars. 

In addition to the bar scene, the company as a whole is thriving post-pandemic in part because of its niche in casual seafood. While most restaurants serving oysters are upscale establishments with a dress code and reservations needed, Shuckin’ Shack is proud to be a laid-back environment. “We’re a one-of-a-kind concept right now. There is no other franchise oyster bar in the country. We’ve done a lot of research and can’t find another company like us,” Piccinin said. 

“The atmosphere is really what we have to offer,” said Bill Bartlett, Chief Operating Officer of Shuckin’ Shack. “We’ve created a strong menu, with both food and signature drinks that are easy to prepare, and I don’t think other restaurants can compete with our consistency. We serve quality food and drinks in a casual and comfortable space. People are definitely impressed and intrigued, and we are seeing that in our profits as a business.”

Weathington said the novelty factor makes Shuckin’ Shack a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to take advantage of and invest in as the brand expands. They aim to continue their success and grow the brand’s bar and restaurant business by doubling in size in the next two to three years.  

The cost to open a Shuckin’ Shack franchise ranges from $352,700 to $1,128,252. For more information visit: https://www.theshuckinshack.com/. 

About Shuckin’ Shack

Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar grew out of a vision for a local establishment that would appeal to families of all ages. A place where friends and family can enjoy fresh, delicious meals and creative cocktails in an environment that exudes relaxation. Shuckin' Shack offers its guests a "lifestyle experience" in addition to exceptional seafood. The brand started as a 900-square-foot shack in Carolina Beach, North Carolina, in 2007 and began franchising in 2014. Today, Shuckin' Shack has grown to 16 locations across five states, and soon to be eight, with several more locations slated to open by the end of 2022. To learn more about Shuckin’ Shack, visit http://www.theshuckinshack.com.