WILMINGTON, N.C. — Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar is once again proving that oysters, live music and giving back make a powerful combination. The 18-unit seafood restaurant franchise announced that its 2025 Fresh & Raw Tour raised $72,539 for Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society), pushing the brand’s cumulative Fresh & Raw Tour fundraising total to nearly $300,000 over four years.

The Fresh & Raw Tour has become a signature Shuckin’ Shack initiative, transforming select Shack locations into high-energy community block parties featuring live music, raffles, ticketed events and limited-edition “Hey Cancer, Shuck Off!” apparel — all benefiting blood cancer research, patient services and advocacy.

“To see The Fresh & Raw Tour grow into something that has raised almost $300,000 is incredibly meaningful,” said Shuckin’ Shack CEO Jonathan Weathington. “This cause hits close to home for so many of us, and supporting Blood Cancer United continues to be one of the most important things we do as a brand.”

The mission behind the tour is personal to the franchise. Co-founder Matt Piccinin is a leukemia survivor who continues regular monitoring, and several Franchise Partners have faced leukemia or lymphoma within their own families. Weathington has also lost close family members to cancer, making the mission behind the tour deeply meaningful.

“This incredible team raised over $72,000 that will directly support patients and their families through research efforts, patient services and advocacy,” said Jennifer Mason, Campaign Development Manager for Blood Cancer United. “We truly appreciate everything that you do for us, year after year. We look forward to continuing the partnership.”

The tour also continues to resonate deeply with guests whose lives have been personally affected by blood cancer. Ray Gaimara, who was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma in 2023, has attended Fresh & Raw Tour events since that year.

“It’s really near and dear to my heart,” Gaimara said. “It's amazing how much money is raised not only to help other families, but to find a cure. I have to fight this for the rest of my life, so if we can find a cure, I’m all for it. It’s amazing that Shuckin’ Shack puts on this event, and I love being here for it.” 

The 2025 Fresh & Raw Tour featured a rotating lineup of Nashville-style singer-songwriters and performers with chart-topping credits and millions of streams, including Dan Alley, Sam Banks, Josiah Siska, Sammy Arriaga, Barrett Baber and Taylor Goyette. The tour included a mix of exclusive ticketed listening-room-style shows and free community concerts, creating a one-of-a-kind experience in each market.

While the format may continue to evolve, Shuckin’ Shack has no plans to slow its commitment to the cause. “We want to continue to support Blood Cancer United, and we look forward to it very much,” Weathington said.

ABOUT SHUCKIN’ SHACK:

Offering a “lifestyle experience,” Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar creates an environment that encourages guests to grab a seat, relax and take their taste buds on a trip to the coast; after all, life is too short for bland drinks and boring bars! The original Carolina Beach, N.C. Shack, which was just 900 square feet, was launched in 2007 with a plan to become the go-to local hangout for people of all ages. A place where friends and family can enjoy fresh, delicious meals, cold beer and craft cocktails in an environment that exudes fun and relaxation, Shuckin’ Shack offers exceptional seafood and creative drinks that will make guests question why they ever settled for ordinary bar offerings. 

Thanks to its bold flavors and impeccable vibes, Shuckin’ Shack has continued to grow. In 2014, the brand began franchising and has since expanded to 18 units across six states. To learn more about Shuckin’ Shack, visit http://www.theshuckinshack.com. 

The cost to open a Shuckin’ Shack franchise ranges from $456,750 to $1,401,420. For more information visit www.theshuckinshack.com.