As a franchisee of Buffalo Wild Wings, you may become a part of a global network of quick-service restaurants that all strive to serve delicious food at reasonable prices to all customers. You’ll probably offer a location where individuals and families can gather and indulge in a delicious dinner in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
In September 2021, Buffalo Wild Wings had a presence in over 1,000 locations across the United States and internationally. The franchise amassed an estimated $2.4 billion in revenue during 2020. Renowned for its extensive menu, boasting more than 20 distinct sauces and seasonings for their chicken wings, Buffalo Wild Wings had a substantial workforce, with tens of thousands of employees, including chefs, servers, and bartenders.
How much does a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise cost?
- Net Worth: $1,500,000
- Cash Requirement: $750,000
- Franchise fee: $12,500-$25,000
- Franchise cost: $2,481,500-$4,804,800
| Buffalo Wild Wings Franchise Price and Costs | |
| Buffalo Wild Wings Franchise Fee | $12,500-$25,000 |
| Buffalo Wild Wings Franchise Cost | $2,481,500 – $4,804,800 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% |
| Advertising Fee | 3.25% |
| Term of Agreement | 20 years |
| Is franchise term renewable? | Yes |
| Renewable Franchise Fees | – |
How much do Buffalo Wild Wings franchise owners make?
Typically, a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise owner generates an annual profit of $554,000, equating to a 17% EBITDA margin.
What is Buffalo Wild Wings franchise profit?
I will estimate/analyse/project the Buffalo Wild Wings franchise profit and years to recoup the investment (ROI).
| AUV | Estimated Annual Profit (12.5%) | Estimated Annual Profit (15%) | Estimated Annual Profit (18%) |
| $3,306,000 | $413,250 | $495,900 | $595,080 |
| Recoup mid-point
$ 3,643,150 |
8.7 years | 7.3 years | 6.12 years |
The estimated Buffalo Wild Wings franchise profit is in the range of $413,250 to $595,080 and it will take 6.12 to 8.7 years to recoup the investment.
According to industry standards, getting a return on the franchise investment will not take a very long time.
Is the Buffalo Wild Wings Franchise Profit Worth the Cost?
The initial investment to establish a fresh Buffalo Wild Wings franchise stands at an average of $3.6 million, a notably higher figure compared to the typical restaurant franchise.
Is this investment justified by the potential earnings? We believe it is. In fact, our assessment suggests that Buffalo Wild Wings franchises typically achieve a payback period of 7 years. In simpler terms, the profits generated by the business would, on average, cover the $3.6 million investment within 7 years.
Potential Risks to consider before investing in a Buffalo Wild Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings faces several key risks. The first is the potential for food-borne illnesses in their chicken-based menu, particularly the threat of salmonella. Such outbreaks could harm their reputation, as seen in Chipotle’s case with lettuce-related illnesses.
Another risk involves legal challenges related to patents on their various sauces. They could unintentionally infringe on others’ recipes or face imitations of their own. To mitigate this, Buffalo Wild Wings needs a legal strategy in place to address potential patent lawsuits and protect its unique recipes.
Lastly, there’s a risk associated with unsuccessful restaurant expansions. Opening new branches is a costly investment, and the possibility of these new locations struggling to generate sufficient revenue is a genuine concern. Financial challenges could lead to price increases and reduced operational profits, which is a significant risk for the company. Therefore, strategic location selection and market analysis are vital when expanding.
How to Open a Buffalo Wild Wings Franchise?
The majority of people begin their franchise journey on their website while learning how to set up a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise restaurant. You can learn a lot of crucial details there regarding the company’s reputation in the marketplace. It’s also where you may get in touch with them by sending a quick form with some information about yourself and your interest. They’ll call you as soon as they have your information and begin the chat. They’ll get to know you better and make sure that their priorities are in line. They’ll proceed to the next phase if both think it’s a good fit.
- LOOKING AT THE FDD
You now have the option to read their Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), a crucial document that all brands are required to have. It includes details about the company’s history, management team, and investment breakdown, among other crucial details. They’re always available to address any concerns concerning the FDD, which prospective franchisees often study along with their legal counsel. In order to undertake a financial investigation, background check, and credit clearance, they will also require you to complete a franchise application.
- GET TO KNOW THEIR LEADERSHIP
Meeting important members of their leadership team and learning more about the culture and principles that underpin the Buffalo Wild Wings brand are some of the next stages. You’ll have a greater understanding of how things work, have the chance to talk about your prior experience and the management structure in place, ask any questions you may have, and be ready to join the family of their fan-favorite brand.
- WEBSITES TO REVIEW FOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
They’ll talk about the location of your new restaurant here. The management team at Buffalo Wild Wings uses a tried-and-true demographic model to help you launch, build, and expand your new wings restaurant. They’ll evaluate each location for potential growth and pair you with a location that will allow you to establish yourself as a respected business figure in your neighborhood.
- SIGN THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
Welcome to the family! You have completed the pre-opening franchisee training, which they will schedule right away, and have signed your franchise agreement and paid your one-time franchise fee. They’re eager to update you on all the information you will require to effectively launch and run your own chicken wing franchise.
Buffalo Wild Wings Franchise Requirements
To start a franchise of Buffalo Wild Wings, the following franchise requirements must be kept in mind:
- Net Worth: $1,500,000
- Cash Requirement: $750,000
- Franchise fee: $12,500-$25,000
- Franchise cost: $2,481,500-$4,804,800
- Royalty fee: 5%
- Advertising fee: 3.25%
Buffalo Wild Wings Training to Franchises
Within a timeframe of no more than 120 days and no less than 60 days before the sports bar’s opening, the franchisor will provide initial in-restaurant training and a familiarization course for a minimum of four individuals from the franchisee’s management team. This group should include the control person, the unit general manager, and at least two assistant managers. The attendees must successfully complete this training to the satisfaction of the franchisor.
The classroom training is a self-paced curriculum. Following this, the franchisor will oversee the initial seven weeks of on-the-job training for the franchisee’s first Buffalo Wild Wings sports bar. This training will take place at a nationally certified training sports bar operated by the franchisor’s affiliates, located in various cities across the country.
Once the franchisees and their management team have successfully completed the training program, the franchisor will, at the expense of the franchisees, arrange for an opening team to assist with the sports bar’s opening.
In the future, franchisees, the control person, and other sports bar personnel may be required to attend additional meetings and refresher training programs as determined by the franchisor. Currently, there are no such plans in place.
How is Buffalo Wild Wings Territory Granted to Franchises
Franchisees are given the privilege to operate a Buffalo Wild Wings sports bar at a specific location approved by the franchisor. This location is situated within a “designated area,” as outlined in the Franchise Agreement. The size of the designated area may vary, but typically, a Buffalo Wild Wings sports bar in an area spanning 3,500 to 7,000 square feet caters to a trade area with a population base of approximately 30,000 to 40,000 residents or with anticipated population growth.
As long as franchisees and their affiliates comply with the terms of the Franchise Agreement and other agreements with the franchisor and its affiliates, the franchisor and its affiliates will refrain from establishing or granting franchises to others for Buffalo Wild Wings sports bars within the designated area for the duration of the Franchise Agreement. The exception to this provision applies to Buffalo Wild Wings sports bars located at special sites within the designated area or those categorized as limited seating facilities.
What is the Franchise Term of Agreement and Renewal?
The initial period of the franchise is 20 years. Franchisees may renew for a second 10-year term if all the required necessary conditions are met.
Does Buffalo Wild Wings provide Financial Assistance to Franchises?
The franchisor does not provide direct or indirect finance. Further, the franchise also does not guarantee debt, lease, or other obligations of a franchisee.
Pros & Cons of owning a Buffalo Wild Wings Franchise
Pros of owning a Buffalo Wild Wings Franchises
- Training: The franchisor offers a comprehensive management training program to assist new sports bar owners in getting acquainted with the business model. The in-restaurant training spans 60 to 120 days, complemented by 210 hours of on-the-job training and an additional 40 hours of classroom training for franchisees.
- Third-party financing: Buffalo Wild Wings itself doesn’t directly or indirectly provide financial assistance to franchisees. However, their third-party partners can offer funding options to cover expenses such as equipment, startup costs, accounts receivable, payroll, and inventory.
- Global presence: Buffalo Wild Wings holds a prominent position in the casual dining restaurant industry, making it easier for franchisees to enter new markets due to the brand’s strong reputation.
- Innovative menu: The unique combination of flavored chicken wings, diverse beer selections, and an immersive sports-watching experience is unparalleled. The array of sauce options keeps customers coming back for more, giving restaurant owners a competitive edge.
- Marketing support: The franchisor offers extensive marketing assistance, including social media management, advertising templates, email marketing, regional advertising, national media campaigns, and website development, helping franchisees effectively promote their businesses.
- Ongoing support: The parent company provides continuous support to franchisees at every stage of their business operations, from the grand opening to site selection, proprietary software, field operations, security and safety procedures, and online assistance.
Cons of Owning a Buffalo Wild Wings Franchises
- Absence of absentee ownership: The franchisor mandates that new restaurant owners actively engage in the day-to-day operations of the business, leaving little room to explore other investment opportunities while managing a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise.
- Not a home-based franchise: Franchisees are restricted to operating their businesses exclusively from a physical office or retail location and are not permitted to run them from their homes.
- Employee requirement of 40-60: To successfully operate the franchise business, a minimum of 40 to 60 employees is necessary.
- Lack of exclusive territories: Buffalo Wild Wings does not grant franchisees exclusive territorial rights, meaning they may face intense competition from similar establishments and other restaurant chains like Applebee’s, Chili’s, and Wingstop in their chosen areas.
- The ambiance may not cater to everyone: While Buffalo Wild Wings is renowned for its combination of wings, beer, and sports, the atmosphere may not be suitable for customers seeking a more tranquil dining environment.
Buffalo Wild Wings Rankings
#227 in 2023: Franchise 500
#64 in 2023: Top Global Franchises
#3 in Sports Bars/Pubs in 2022: Top Food Franchises
Franchise Deck Analysis and Overview
Sending in an inquiry form is the first step toward opening a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise. You must do your homework and decide if this is the correct opportunity for you before committing any money or signing a contract. Ask questions to the Buffalo Wild Wings staff while speaking to current franchise owners. You may be eligible to launch a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise, and you can begin with an initial investment and pertinent training provided your net worth and available liquid capital meet the brand’s standards. If all goes as planned, your community might soon get a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise!
Opening a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise might be for you if you enjoy the notion of serving up tasty chicken and having fun. You must adhere to the Inspire Brands family’s recipe and service standards in order to be a member. Creativity might be welcomed when it comes to your décor, customer rewards, and promotion ideas. As long as the traditional Buffalo Wild Wings foods and sauces remain on the menu, there may also be a ton of room for more distinctive and authentic items, depending on the locale.
As a franchisee of Buffalo Wild Wings, you may become a part of a global network of restaurant chains that all strive to serve delicious food at reasonable prices to all customers. You’ll probably offer a location where individuals and families can come together and indulge in a delicious dinner in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
What is the Buffalo Wild Wings?
Buffalo Wild Wings is an American restaurant chain with a focus on sports and entertainment, with its headquarters situated in Atlanta, Georgia. It has a presence in several countries, including the United States, Mexico, Panama, India, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and Canada.
Founded in 1982 in Columbus, Ohio, by James Disbrow and Scott Lowery, Buffalo Wild Wings specializes in a menu featuring chicken wings, sandwiches, burgers, an array of sauces, and a selection of beers. It commenced its franchising operations in 1991, well before its merger with Inspire Brands.
Presently, this sports bar brand boasts a total of 1,258 locations, with a presence in 50 U.S. states and spanning 10 other countries worldwide. With over 1,200 establishments globally, Buffalo Wild Wings stands as a highly favored franchise brand, enjoying popularity among both customers and potential franchisees.
Is Buffalo Wild Wings a Franchise Opportunity?
Yes, Buffalo Wild Wings is a franchise opportunity; they started franchising in 1991.
Facts That Nobody Told You About Buffalo Wild Wings
- It began in Ohio when two Buffalo natives, Jim Disbrow and Scott Lowery, couldn’t find their hometown wings and decided to open their own Buffalo Wild Wings.
- Originally named “Buffalo Wild Wings and Weck,” hence the BW3 nickname. The ‘weck’ refers to a roast beef sandwich from western New York, but it didn’t last on the menu.
- Jim Disbrow, one of the co-founders, was a figure skating enthusiast who achieved national recognition and later served in leadership roles within the U.S. Figure Skating Association.
- Buffalo Wild Wings strategically placed its restaurants near college campuses, realizing the appeal of affordable wings for students and expanding to a broader customer base.
- They maintain a gallery of retired sauces, featuring experimental flavors that didn’t quite make the cut.
- Buffalo Wild Wings thrived during the recession by positioning itself as an affordable and enjoyable place to watch sports.
- They sell nearly two billion wings annually, encompassing boneless and traditional options, with over 100 million sold during March Madness.
- Expanding globally, Buffalo Wild Wings has locations in Mexico, Dubai, and the Philippines, making its ‘Asian Zing’ wings available worldwide.
- Current CEO Sally Smith unexpectedly assumed the role in 1996 when the newly hired CEO failed to show up, and she continues to lead the company today.
| Buffalo Wild Wings Review and Information | |
| Industry Type | Food franchise opportunities |
| Sub Category | Chicken franchise opportunities |
| Year Established | 1982 |
| Company Name | Buffalo Wild Wings |
| Founder/Management Head | Lyle Tick, President |
| Franchising Started | 1991 |
| Employees at Company H.O | 3000 |
| Franchise Expansion Plan | Throughout the US |
| Number of Units | 1,252 (as of 2023) |
| Number of Franchise Units | 530 |
| Social Media Handles | |
| Youtube | |
| Company Office location | Atlanta, Georgia |
Competition Analysis of Buffalo Wild Wings
| Buffalo Wild Wings | Cost to Franchise | Franchisee Fees | Royalty + Ad fees | Expected Profit | Recoup of Capital | FD Rating |
| Buffalo Wild Wings | $2,481,500-$4,804,800 | $12,500-$25,000 | 5%+3.25% | $413,250 to $595,080 | 6.12 to 8.7 years | 3.5/5.0 |
| IHOP franchise | $1,152,954-$6,089,550 | $15,000 | 4.5%+ 3.5% | $59M | 10-20 years | 3.4/5.0 |
| Denny’s | $305K-$2.33M | $10,000-$30,000 | 4.5-7%+3-3.25% | $40,000 to $ 150,000 | 10-18 years | |
| Steak ‘n Shake Franchise | $1,208,000-$1,687,000 | $25,000 | 5.5%+3% | $1,403,587 | 5 to 8 years | 3.9 /5.0 |
| Dunkin’ DonutsFranchise | $121,400 – $1,787,700 | $10,000- $90,000 | 5-9% + 5% | $75,000 to $ 225,000 | 5.5 years | 4.1 / 5.0 |
| Waffle House Franchise | $600,000 to 1Million | $37,500 | 6% | $65,000 to $130,00 | 8 to 15 years | 3.8/5.0 |
The Franchise Deck rating for the Buffalo Wild Wings franchise is 3.5/5.0.
Conclusion: Should You buy a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise for sale?
To join the Buffalo Wild Wings franchise team, you must be financially prepared to make an initial investment consisting of a franchise fee and other associated fees. You should also budget for continuing expenditures such as advertising, royalties, and prospective renewal fees. Franchisees must also meet the company’s established net worth and liquid capital standards.
Buffalo Wild Wings, as a leading casual dining restaurant, may have the reputation as well as the global market to give you an operational business. Their restaurant locations are well-known all over the world, and they have a good reputation. Your franchise could be on its way to success quickly thanks to their training and global advertising network.
Entrepreneurs who want to open a franchise in the category franchise opportunities categories can look at
- IHOP franchise
- Denny’s franchise
- Steak ‘n Shake Franchise
- Dunkin’ DonutsFranchise
- Waffle House Franchise
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Is the Buffalo Wild Wings franchise profitable?
The profitability of a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise can vary depending on factors like location, local competition, management, and economic conditions. Historically, Buffalo Wild Wings has been a popular and profitable chain of sports bars and restaurants in the US. However, individual franchise profitability differs widely, making it essential for potential franchisees to conduct thorough market research and financial analysis to determine the potential for success in their specific area.
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Can you make money owning a Buffalo Wild Wings?
Yes, you can make a considerable amount of money by owning a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise.
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Is a Buffalo Wild Wings a franchise?
Yes, it is a franchise.
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How much is a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise?
- Franchise fee: $12,500-$25,000
- Franchise cost: $2,481,500-$4,804,800
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How do Buffalo Wild Wings franchises make money?
Buffalo Wild Wings Sports Bars embraces a casual and fast-casual restaurant concept with a strong focus on sports entertainment. They feature an extensive menu that includes a diverse selection of chicken wings, and sandwiches, along with a range of food and beverage options, including alcoholic drinks.
