Wingstop Launches International Expansion into Mexico

Wingstop, the national chicken wing chain that sells one million wings daily in the United States, is spreading its wings across the border. The Dallas-based chain today announced its first international Franchise agreement for 10 restaurants in the State of Mexico and Mexico DF over the next two years.

Under the franchise agreement, WIS de Mexico S.A. de C.V. will open three restaurants in the first year and seven locations the following year. Franchise partners include successful Mexican entrepreneurs Jose Luis Serrato Villegas, Luis Antonio Ortiz Dominguez and Jose Francisco Cantu Quintero.

“This is a major milestone in Wingstop history,” said Jim Flynn, CEO of Wingstop. “Our first international franchise is a huge step for our brand and we could not have chosen a more dedicated and talented group of Brand Partners in Jose Luis, Luis Antonio and Jose Francisco. Their Restaurant operating experience in Mexico will serve them well in moving forward with Wingstop.” 

Wingstop, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, has 650 restaurants open or under development in the United States. Several of the company’s highest average-unit-volume stores are located in predominately Hispanic markets and Wingstop is confident the brand will be an immediate hit in this new territory.

“We are thrilled to be the newest members of the Wingstop team,” said Jose Luis Serrato Villegas. “This is a very exciting new business venture for us and we are proud to introduce Wingstop’s chicken wings to our home country.”

Bruce Evans, vice president of franchise development for Wingstop, said the initial outreach into Mexico was due in large part thanks to a strong relationship with the U.S. Department of Commerce. “Expanding internationally creates a new level of growth for Wingstop,” said Evans. “We worked closely with Elizabeth Graham at U.S. Commercial Service, an organization within the Department of Commerce. And as a result of that partnership we are experiencing a landmark in Wingstop history with our first international expansion.”

At a time when many chains are struggling, Wingstop has experienced a record 23 quarters of positive comp stores sales and recently ranked number five on the Technomic, Inc. annual report of the Ten Fastest-Growing Chains with Sales Over $200 Million.

About Wingstop

Wingstop offers restaurants with a nostalgic, aviation-themed atmosphere where the sole focus is on chicken wings. Wingstop features nine wing flavors, including Original Hot, Cajun, Atomic, Mild, Teriyaki, Lemon Pepper, Hawaiian, Garlic Parmesan, and Hickory Smoked BBQ. The wings are cooked-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. Wingstop recently received an American Business Award for Best Overall Company and was chosen Wing King at the 2006 National Buffalo Wing Festival. Troy Aikman, three-time Super Bowl champion and Hall of Fame quarterback, has served as the chain’s national spokesman since 2003.