Wingstop Announces Major Expansion for Northeastern U.S.

Wingstop, the chicken wing chain that has sold over one billion wings, has announced plans to focus its expansion efforts on the Northeast and spread its award-winning wings into New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Ohio, Connecticut and New York. The company plans to open as many as 75 restaurants in the Northeast over the next five years.

To launch the aggressive expansion campaign, the company will host a series of open house events this fall to offer local entrepreneurs and potential franchisees a chance to meet members of the Wingstop management team and hear more about the company’s expansion plans and Franchise opportunities.

The company is off to a strong start thanks to recent franchise agreements with NFL Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Raheem Brock to develop three restaurants in the Philadelphia area, and former NFL lineman Ron Stone to develop two Wingstop restaurants in Boston.

“Despite troubles in the economy, this has already been a banner year for Wingstop,” said Bruce Evans, vice president of franchise development for Wingstop. “Our network of franchisees coupled with our simple, efficient concept and quality product are growing the brand across the country. And we’re excited to begin expansion in the Northeast.”

Dallas-based Wingstop was founded in 1994 and began Franchising in 1997. Today Wingstop has almost 600 locations open or under development nationwide and systemwide sales have grown from $11.9 million in 2000 to $200 million in 2007.

With more than 600 restaurants open or under development, Wingstop has experienced positive comp stores sales for 21 consecutive quarters. The company moved from #336 to #125 on Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Franchise 500” ranking of all leading franchise brands worldwide and was #76 on the 2007 Fast Casual “Top 100 Movers & Shakers” list. 

About Wingstop:
Wingstop offers restaurants with a nostalgic, aviation-themed atmosphere where the sole focus is on chicken wings.  The chain now serves boneless wing strips that are made from 100 percent all-white meat chicken breast coated with a proprietary batter and breading.  Wingstop features nine wing flavors, including Original Hot, Cajun, Atomic, Mild, Teriyaki, Lemon Pepper, Hawaiian, Garlic Parmesan, and Hickory Smoked BBQ. The wings are made-to-order and customers can also choose from homemade side dishes including fresh-cut seasoned fries, bourbon baked beans, pearl potato salad, creamy cole slaw, vegetable sticks, rolls and assorted dipping sauces.