Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar Sets Sights on Burlington, North Carolina, for Newest Location

Shuckin’ Shack, the 18-unit oyster bar franchise, is looking to expand its presence in the Carolinas with a new location in Burlington, North Carolina. Because the brand started in Carolina Beach, North Carolina, and has built a strong presence in the states, the community is already welcoming to the Shuckin’ Shack model and the leadership team is now working to increase access for loyal guests.

“We already have a few locations in the state, and Burlington is a prime market,” said CEO Jonathan Weathington. “It’s right in the middle of where we like to be and follows a natural growth pattern. And because it’s along the I-40 corridor, operations and distribution will be fairly easy for the franchise owner.”

With a diverse population and existing brand recognition, Burlington reflects other North Carolina markets where Shuckin’ Shack has already seen success. A franchise owner who brings a single unit into a market like Burlington will be able to leverage the community connection and care that is so prevalent in smaller markets — something Shuckin’ Shack is known and loved for.

“Community is what we do. That connection and opportunity to give back have always been big parts of our business strategy,” Weathington said. “Whether it’s a franchise owner partnering with a local non-profit, the larger system-wide commitment to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or the opportunity to create a welcoming, relaxing space for our neighbors to let loose and enjoy themselves, the ability to give back is one of the primary perks of being in this business.”

Weathington added that the opportunity to establish another location in Burlington and increase the brand’s presence in the market is exciting as it will allow franchise owners to make an even bigger impact. Franchise owners are reliably able to build reciprocal relationships with locals, capturing strong support for their businesses.

This Burlington growth will be flexible to align with the needs of the right franchise owner. Shuckin’ Shack has a very practical approach to real estate, but Weathington said any target neighborhoods within Burlington are to be determined.

“We really want this franchise owner to be from Burlington, or from somewhere nearby, and already ingrained in the community,” he said. “If a prospective owner is already participating in other community events or organizations, it is a good indicator of alignment with our values and an ability to run the Shuckin’ Shack business in a meaningful way. Once this person is identified, we can work together to determine which areas within the Burlington market will be the best fit.” 

Given the strength of the market, the team sees an opportunity to open this new unit within a year with either a single-unit deal or a multi-unit franchise owner looking to grow in the Triad area.

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, NC 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: https://shuckinshackfranchise.com/.