Wings and Rings

While <a href="https://ownabuffalo.com/columbus/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings</a>, the elevated sports restaurant concept out of Cincinnati, has been operating for more than 30 years, the brand’s entry into the Columbus market happened about a dozen years ago – and was the result of a group of buddies from <a href="https://www.osu.edu/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Ohio State University</a> with a love for quality wings.“A bunch of college friends and I were in an investment club and we always met at wing restaurants to discuss ideas. We loved wings but didn’t think our regular spot operated their business very well so that gave us the idea to look into wing restaurants as an investment opportunity. We looked at 10-12 different wing concepts over the course of a week, which is how we discovered Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings,” said Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings franchisee Greg Mackanos.Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings boasts more than 75 locations across the globe and just ended a <a href="https://buffalowingsandrings.1851franchise.com/details/2705396/Buffalo-Wings-Rings-Achieves-100-mill-ion-Mark-in-U-S-System-Wide-Sales-in-2017?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">successful 2017 where the company hit the $100-million mark</a> for domestic system-wide sales for the first time while also growing restaurant count by more than 10 percent.In 2006, when deciding on the right brand for them, Mackanos and his friends met the Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings leadership team and were impressed. <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/blog/2014/07/5-questions-with-the-buffalo-wings-rings-ceo-and.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Now-CEO Nader Masadeh</a>, who had just purchased the company along with partners including <a href="https://1851franchise.com/details/2704357/Franchise-Development-Players-Philip-Schram-Chief-Development-Officer-of-Buffalo-Wings-Rings">Philip Schram</a>, who serves today as the company’s Chief Development Officer, outlined their vision for the brand. The friends bought in to the vision that the new ownership group had for <a href="https://buffalowingsandrings.1851franchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings</a> and saw opportunity to invest early in a brand poised for growth, as they had just started to franchise.“We went back and pitched the idea of opening a Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings restaurant to the club, and everyone said yes. But when it came time to actually do it, everyone backed out but my partner and I,” chuckled Mackanos. “We found a great spot in Grove City, just south of Columbus and loved the area – and have loved it ever since.”Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings loves what they feel is possible in the Columbus market. The proximity to the home market of Cincinnati makes it an ideal market to provide direct support from the corporate team through construction, opening and then during the lifespan of the restaurant. The company <a href="https://buffalowingsandrings.1851franchise.com/details/2705874/Buffalo-Wings-Rings-Partners-with-Site-Selection-Provider-eSite-Analytics-to-Spur-Growth-throughout-Franchise-System?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">has scouted the market extensively and has identified areas primed for growth</a> including Dublin, Hilliard, Grandview, Westerville, New Albany, Pickerington and more.First Columbus Location Doubles BusinessThe Grove City Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings opened doors on July 11, 2007 and according to Mackanos they have doubled their business since then.After the opening in Grove City, Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings opened two more locations in the greater Columbus area before the end of 2008, including one on Broad Street in eastern Columbus and another just north of the city in Lewis Center.Now, with the success those three locations have experienced and with two more locations in development in Gahanna and in nearby Obetz, Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings is focused on expansion in the Columbus market.“We have had a continued and successful presence for more than 10 years in Columbus and it’s the closest major market to our home market of Cincinnati,” said Schram. “A lot of people travel&nbsp;from&nbsp;Cincinnati to the state capitol and the I-75 corridor is good for brand awareness. <a href="https://buffalowingsandrings.1851franchise.com/details/2705146/Home-is-Where-the-Heart-is-for-Buffalo-Wings-Rings-with-Oakley-Station-Opening-in-Cincinnati?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Now that we’ve almost fully saturated Cincinnati</a>, Columbus makes sense strategically. Also, several wing concepts were born in&nbsp;Columbus. The people in&nbsp;Columbus&nbsp;like&nbsp;wings, sports and beer. It's ingrained in the DNA of the market and we think we have ample opportunity to grow.”Corporate Support in Columbus&nbsp;to Help with Brand’s Growth in Market<a href="https://www.nightclub.com/food-drink/ready-set-shake-using-bartender-competitions-to-build-your-menu?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Doug Morrison</a>, a Franchise Business Manager for Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings who lives in Columbus, is in the market to help support the growth. A big fan of The Ohio State University athletics&nbsp;like Mackanos, when he’s not at the corporate offices or traveling to see franchisees outside of the state, Morrison can be found in any of the three Columbus area locations as part of <a href="https://buffalowingsandrings.1851franchise.com/details/2705440/Buffalo-Wings-Rings-Beefs-Up-Its-Corporate-Team?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">the brand’s investment in strong corporate support for franchisees</a>.“We have the bandwidth to really expand our presence in the Columbus market,” said Morrison. “We’re a growing city and there are countless areas of the market that are booming such as the <a href="https://eastontowncenter.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Easton Town Center</a> and the upcoming <a href="https://www.polariscenters.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=buffalo-wings-rings-set-to-expand-in-columbus-market-with-qualified-franchise-operators-ohio-state-grads-2705895" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">POLARIS development</a>. I could rattle off another four to five areas that are perfect for our concept, and we’d still have room for more. There is a tremendous amount of opportunity today for Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings.”Those in the greater Columbus area interested in the Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings franchise opportunity should have liquid capital of $300,000 or higher and a net worth of at least $1-million. Investment to open a Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings franchise ranges between $1.2-million and $3-million.“We have a very supportive group of franchisees that exist in the Columbus area already and they want to grow the market,” said Morrison. “The more locations we open and the stronger presence we have, we can market even more and improve trial and enhance loyalty. We believe in working as a team throughout the area to make sure the brand is thriving overall. We do regional marketing in the area and as we grow, we'll be able to do bigger and better things.”As he nears 11 years with the Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings brand, Mackanos believes that the model itself is key to any franchisee’s success.“We've got it set up now that if you follow the program correctly, you're going to be successful. If you go outside of the program, you won't be successful. The key for us is being consistent. Our wings are great. Before I decided to become a franchisee with Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings, I used to eat wing four days a week and would never go to a place that didn't have great wings. Our wings are the best. We simply have the best product out there. Every day and every year it just gets a little bit better.”&nbsp;

Buffalo Wings & Rings Set to Expand in Columbus Market with Qualified Franchise Operators, Ohio State Grads

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After Successful Decade in Market, Cincinnati-based Brand Aims to Expand with Six More Locations before 2020

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CINCINNATI&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a href="https://ownwingsandrings.com/">Wings and Rings</a>, the 85-unit, club-level sports restaurant and bar franchise, has launched its Operating Partner Program (OPP), a strategic initiative designed to reward top-performing general managers with a share of the bottom line while creating a clear pathway toward future franchise ownership.Built to mirror the benefits of ownership without requiring significant upfront capital, the program gives high-performing operators a “sweat equity equivalent,” allowing them to participate directly in the financial success of their restaurants while continuing to grow within the system.“It’s really an opportunity for our best managers to earn a share of the bottom line,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-bafundo-44908a3/">Bob Bafundo</a>, Chief Operating Officer. “In many ways, it mimics the franchisee ownership model. The better the restaurant performs, the more they benefit. It creates true alignment.”The Operating Partner Program is grounded in one of Wings and Rings’ core values: “stand together as family.”With many general managers having more than a decade of tenure, the program reflects a long-standing commitment to recognizing and investing in the people who have helped build the business.“This is essentially a way to reward our best operators with a bigger, better opportunity,” Bafundo said. “It’s about recognizing the people who have been driving this brand forward for years and giving them a chance to grow with us in a more meaningful way.”Beyond individual rewards, the program is designed to strengthen the system as a whole by retaining top talent and creating stability at the general manager level, a key driver of restaurant performance.“Research in this industry consistently shows that stability at the general manager level leads to stability among hourly employees,” Bafundo said. “And that stability ultimately drives guest satisfaction, sales and profitability.”Participants are expected to operate with an owner’s mindset, taking accountability for performance, building strong teams and serving as the face of the brand in their local communities. The program also acts as a stepping stone toward future franchise ownership, giving operators the experience and financial upside to grow within the system.To qualify, candidates must demonstrate at least two years of strong performance as a general manager, consistent operational excellence, a desire to grow with the brand and the ability to make an upfront investment, which varies by restaurant.The Operating Partner Program is currently rolling out internally, with many candidates expected to meet eligibility requirements by the end of the year.As Wings and Rings continues to expand, the OPP reinforces the brand’s commitment to developing talent from within, strengthening its culture and aligning incentives across the system.“This is about investing in our people for the long term,” Bafundo said. “When our operators win, our teams win, and ultimately, our guests do too.”ABOUT WINGS AND RINGSEstablished in 1984 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Wings and Rings is THE club-level sports restaurant and bar with Craveworthy Wings and Rings, My Place Service and a Club-Level Ambiance, all to encourage social connections. Whether it’s enjoying a bit of banter, catching up over the game, finding new craft beer favorites, or celebrating a big win, Wings and Rings is the place where everyone can kick back, enjoy life, and champion everyday moments. With 85 units across the globe, Wings and Rings is changing the sports restaurant category, making elevated food and beverage experiences accessible to all fans. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wingsandrings.com">www.WingsandRings.com</a> and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ownwingsandrings.com">www.OwnWingsandRings.com</a>.

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The Cincinnati-based sports restaurant franchise created the program to give strong operators a larger share in store performance and a path to more ownership-style responsibility.

Wings and Rings Launches Operating Partner Program to Reward Top Performers and Build Future Franchise Owners

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CINCINNATI, Ohio —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/">Wings and Rings</a>, the 85-unit, club-level sports restaurant and bar franchise, is turning up the heat for college basketball fans during the 2026 NCAA tournament with a limited-time game day deal made for sharing. Kicking off with the first round on March 19 and running throughout the championship on April 6, guests can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/baskets">score a free basket</a> of Saratoga chips, fries or wedges with the purchase of 20 wings on NCAA tournament game days with code BASKETS.The tournament deals don’t stop there. Wings and Rings loyalty members will receive a new freebie loaded into their accounts during every round of the tournament, giving fans even more reasons to stay in the game. Guests can download the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/baskets">Wings and Rings app</a> to start earning rewards and unlock exclusive offers.Throughout the tournament, guests can enjoy Wings and Rings’ signature wings paired with bold sauces and flavors, making it easy to build a shareable spread for friends and family. Plus, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/deals">Daily Value</a> lineup keeps the deals rolling all week long:&nbsp;<ul><li>Monday &amp; Friday: Kids Eat Free. Start the week with homework after school and end it cheering on the game.</li><li>Tuesday: 40% off wings (traditional or boneless), juicy and packed with bold flavor.</li><li>Wednesday: $8.49 three-piece tender baskets. Hand-breaded, generous servings at unbeatable value.</li><li>Weekday Lunch (11 a.m.–2 p.m.): Generous portions of wings, sandwiches, burgers, and salads that won’t break the bank.</li><li>Happy Hour (Mon–Fri, 3–6 p.m.): Afternoon deals on drinks and bites, ideal for unwinding with friends before tip-off.</li></ul>During the tournament, guests can indulge in Wings and Rings’ Crafted Classics limited-time menu, featuring the return of Sam Adams Beer Cheese across comfort-forward dishes made for game watching. Favorites include Sam’s Beer Cheese Loaded Fries or Chips, the Beer Cheese Chicken Sandwich, and Beer Cheese Jumbo Tenders, perfect for sharing.With wall-to-wall games, shareable eats, and can’t-miss tournament deals, Wings and Rings is the ultimate spot for fans to gather and celebrate every championship moment.To find a Wings and Rings near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com">https://www.wingsandrings.com</a>.&nbsp;ABOUT WINGS AND RINGS&nbsp;Established in 1984 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Wings and Rings is THE club-level sports restaurant and bar with Craveworthy Wings and Rings, My Place Service and a Club-Level Ambiance, all to encourage social connections. Whether it’s enjoying a bit of banter, catching up over the game, finding new craft beer favorites or celebrating a big win, Wings and Rings is the place where everyone can kick back, enjoy life and champion everyday moments. With 85 units across the globe, Wings and Rings is changing the sports restaurant category, making elevated food and beverage experiences accessible to all fans. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wingsandrings.com">www.WingsandRings.com</a> and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ownwingsandrings.com">www.OwnWingsandRings.com</a>.&nbsp;

Score big with a free basket of fries, chips, or wedges when you grab 20 wings on NCAA tournament game days, giving your crew extra fuel for every buzzer-beater.

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CINCINNATI, Ohio —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/">Wings and Rings</a>, the 85-unit, club-level sports restaurant and bar franchise, is shaking up the week with a fresh lineup of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/deals">Daily Value offers</a> starting March 2. Leaning further into its reputation for crave-worthy wings and tenders, the brand is doubling down on what matters most: big flavor, big portions and big-time value, whether you’re feeding the family or grabbing your favorites with friends.&nbsp;Here’s what guests can expect from the Wings and Rings’ Daily Value lineup:<ul><li>Monday and Friday: Kids Eat Free kicks off and wraps up the week. Start Monday with homework after school and end Friday toasting the weekend with the game on at your local Wings and Rings.</li><li>Tuesday: 40% off wings! Traditional or boneless, every wing is juicy, tender and loaded with bold, crave-worthy flavor.</li><li>Wednesday: $8.49 three-piece tender baskets. Midweek cravings, meet unbeatable value. Wings and Rings’ three-piece tender baskets feature big, hand-breaded tenders, and offer better prices and bigger servings than most fast-food options.</li><li>Weekday Lunch (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.): Lunch doesn’t have to be small. Enjoy full-size lunch options, from wings, to sandwiches, burgers or salads, all at wallet-friendly prices.</li><li>Happy Hour (Monday–Friday, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.): Your favorite time of day just got better. Unwind with great drinks, food and can’t-miss deals all afternoon.&nbsp;</li></ul>These Daily Value offers are designed to give fans and families more of what they love: bold flavor, hearty portions and meals that satisfy.“We built our Daily Value lineup to give big value to the families and fans that make us who we are,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dansweatt/">Dan Sweatt</a>, Senior Marketing Manager. “We’re confident we have the best wings and tenders you can find. If you haven’t tried us before, now there’s a great reason to give us a shot. If you’re already a fan, this is our way of saying thank you.”Starting March 2, weekdays are about to get a whole lot tastier. To see the full menu or find your local Wings and Rings, visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wingsandrings.com">www.wingsandrings.com</a>.About Wings and RingsEstablished in 1984 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Wings and Rings is THE club-level sports restaurant and bar with Craveworthy Wings and Rings, My Place Service and a Club-Level Ambiance, all to encourage social connections. Whether it’s enjoying a bit of banter, catching up over the game, finding new craft beer favorites, or celebrating a big win, Wings and Rings is the place where everyone can kick back, enjoy life and champion everyday moments. With 85 units across the globe, Wings and Rings is changing the sports restaurant category, making elevated food and beverage experiences accessible to all fans. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wingsandrings.com">www.WingsandRings.com</a> and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ownwingsandrings.com">www.OwnWingsandRings.com</a>.

Starting March 2, the sports restaurant franchise will begin offering huge wing savings, Kids Eat Free nights and daily deals that make skipping the kitchen easy.

Wings and Rings Launches All-New Daily Value Lineup Packed with Big Flavors and Big Savings

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Buffalo Wings & Rings Set to Expand in Columbus Market with Qualified Franchise Operators, Ohio State Grads

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