Dallas-based Wingstop sets record for franchise sells in 2007

by PegNews wire

DALLAS — Wingstop, the chicken wing chain that has sold more than one billion wings, had a record year for franchise sales in 2007, closing agreements on 145 stores in 2007. That number represents the most ever for the Dallas-based chain, but the company is on track to exceed that record with 18 stores already signed in 2008.

The 145 stores include agreements for 86 restaurants to be opened by new franchisees and 59 to be opened by existing franchisees. Bev Rich, Wingstop's director of franchise development, led the record-breaking effort, selling 90 of the 145 stores.

Among its new franchisees are recording artist E-40, NFL player Willie McGinest and former NFL player Ron Stone.

“Wingstop is becoming the most recognized chicken wing restaurant around," said E-40, whose Bay Area restaurant will open this year. “I first tried the food in Dallas and as soon as I tasted the wings I was hooked."

California gained the most new restaurants, with 25 additional restaurants to be opened by the end of 2008.

“This has been a banner year for Wingstop, and we expect 2008 to be even bigger,” said Bruce Evans, vice president of franchise development for Wingstop. “So far we are on track in 2008 to exceed last year. Our simple, efficient concept and quality product coupled with the Wingstop name are growing our brand across the country.”

The Dallas-based company 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.

Source: Wingstop