Buffalo Wings & Rings Planning Further Columbus, Ohio Expansion

No situation is more ideal for the diehard sports fan than a sports restaurant that is right around the corner from their home. Even better, is a go-to place with chef-inspired recipes, 50+ televisions and an elevated fan experience combining to create the perfect atmosphere for socializing with friends and family.

 

With more than 30 years in business, Buffalo Wings & Rings is now set to expand its signature sports dining experience in Columbus, Ohio. The Cincinnati-based franchisor has seen great success in its home state with 12 locations currently in operation.

 

“Ohio has always treated us well,” said Buffalo Wings & Rings chief development officer Philip Schram. “We pride ourselves in delivering best-in-class customer service along with a chef-driven menu, which consistently drives repeat business. Ohio will always be our home and we look forward to finding new franchisees to operate units in Columbus and other untapped territories across the state.”

 

The brand currently has three locations in the Columbus area, but is looking to increase its presence across the market through franchising. This expansion includes opening eight to 10 additional restaurants within the next three to five years. Columbus’ expansion means it will also be close to home with the brands headquarters in Cincinnati. An ambitious plan, but Schram is confident in the market based on its demographics and population density.

 

“We have some of the best franchise owners in our industry and we feel that we will find new ones that hold our same corporate values and will take the ball and run,” Schram said. “The Columbus market is primed for expansion. The people who live in this area are extremely passionate about both sports and family, and our existing locations have seen great success.”

 

Excitement around expansion is a mutual feeling in the company. Buffalo Wings & Rings Vice President of Operations Steve Catanese said the brand is looking to grow the company concentrically from their headquarters of Cincinnati and Columbus was a logical choice. He went on to say the demographics of Columbus mesh well with the brands core target market and they have a few locations on top already.

 

“We currently have three locations in Columbus and a signed franchise agreement for a fourth in the village of Obetz,” Catanese said. “The village itself will be the franchisee which is unusual for our business model but a testament to the broad appeal our brand enjoys.”

 

Buffalo Wings & Rings franchisee Todd Fetter, who will be partnering with Buffalo Wings & Rings franchisee John Gerbus to acquire an existing franchise in Columbus, said he is interested in the Columbus market and feels that the support system he gets from the company is one of the reasons why he wants to branch out.

 

“I like that the corporate headquarters are in Cincinnati, which means they’re close for training and support,” Fetter said. “The support system is great. You can pick up a phone and call any of the Wings & Rings owners directly. Maybe they won’t handle the issue directly but they will help you find the answer. It’s very personal.”

 

 

For more information about Buffalo Wings & Rings franchising in Columbus click here.