Wings and Rings, the 85-plus-unit sports restaurant and bar franchise, is in an advantageous position to help new franchise owners strive for their dreams of being successful entrepreneurs. The brand has experienced many major achievements this year and has made a few internal improvements to ensure that the franchise innovates and remains a quality option for business ownership. 

“Our brand has done a very good job of taking into consideration the full environment of the world in which we operate, including supply change challenges and the macroeconomic state.  We will constantly adjust where needed so that we and our franchisees may continue to thrive.  Existing franchisees continue to invest in Wings and Rings, in both new stores and remodels, which goes to prove that we’re doing things in the best interest of our franchisees and their investments.  It is a very strong statement when existing franchisees, as well as new franchisees, believe that what we offer is an attractive opportunity,” said Dan Doulen, director of franchising and real estate. 

Cost-Saving Franchise Model 
Doulen said that Wings and Rings is sensitive to the current financial state of the economy and has implemented a number of things to help offset some of the initial and ongoing investment costs to provide a better opportunity for franchisees.

The brand’s development incentive program offers those who sign agreements the opportunity to save up to $40,000 per location on their investment, with no franchise fee and no royalties (which are typically 5%) due to the franchisor for the first six months of operation, applicable to one or multiple locations.

“Because we recognize that prices are high, reducing that initial investment and royalty is one way that we are actively assisting franchisees to offset costs,” Doulen said.

New Space-Saving and Cost-Saving Floor Plan 

Another way to lower the initial and ongoing investment was to reduce the size of our restaurant.  Even prior to COVID-19, Wings and Rings assessed their locations and studied industry data suggesting that the outlook would include more carry-out and delivery. Of course, this was accelerated by the pandemic.  To adapt, the brand tested the G4 Wings and Rings prototype model with a smaller footprint and updated interior design and technology. Beyond the initial franchise fee and royalties, the smaller-scale build-out was a significant contributor in lowering initial and ongoing investment costs.

“Off-premise dining will continue to be an important part of the restaurant business into the future,” said Doulen. “So we looked at the space and reduced the size of our restaurants by 1,000 square feet, shifting more focus to convenience and ease of access for pick-up and third-party deliveries.  We also made important technological upgrades for execution.”  “We will look to continuously improve in any market conditions.”

The new Wings and Rings prototype also includes a Valet Pick-Up lane, which helps guests defray the cost of third-party delivery by easily driving through to pick-up their orders.  If franchisees are not able to get a Valet Pick-Up lane at their location, we also have dedicated space inside the restaurant for Valet Pick-Up, including designated parking spaces.

Implementing Labor Efficiencies     

The technological initiatives at Wings and Rings help to streamline operations, improve labor efficiencies and provide a better, more convenient, customer experience for guests. The brand has incorporated QR code ordering, a new point-of-sale (POS) system, replete with tablets, and significant upgrades to the Wings and Rings app.  

In addition, the brand is working with California-based technology company, Miso Robotics, to use its Flippy 2 robot in the kitchen at the Crestview Hills, Kentucky Wings and Rings location.  They were informed that Wings and Rings was the first company to be utilizing this A.I. and robotic technology in a functioning restaurant, versus in a test facility. Starting with a focus on cooking wings, Flippy 2 has performed very well, while there are always refinements to be made.  In the future, more functions could be performed by A.I. and robotics, while they still require people to operate the robots.

“Incorporating Flippy into the kitchen operation is intended to help with efficiency and labor functions, as well as continuing the company’s proactive approach to using technology to improve the business,” said Doulen. 

For more information on Wings and Rings, the investment and financial qualifications, please visit: OwnWingsandRings.com.

ABOUT WINGS AND RINGS

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, which encourages social connection for our guests. 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 more than 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 www.WingsAndRings.com.