Hooters is capitalizing on consumer interest in chicken wings and takeout and delivery with the new fast casual concept Hoots Wings.
The fast casual chain is backed by industry-leader HOA Brands, the franchisor and operator of over 400 Hooters restaurants in 42 states and 27 countries.
"With only a few national competitors and an unmet demand, Hoots Wings is ready to become a dominant player in the wing industry," said Sal Melilli, CEO of HOA Brands and creator of hoots wings. "We've built a strong model that is well suited for the trends of tomorrow and years to come, and that has resulted in impressive unit level economics."
The first Hoots Wings opened four years ago in Chicago, featuring simple operations that require only two pieces of kitchen equipment to make the full menu. The brand currently operates seven locations throughout Illinois, Georgia and Florida.
The brand’s menu offers breaded bone-in, naked bone-in, boneless, smoked and roasted wings that can be combined with a dozen sauce and rub options to form over 100,000 different combinations. Guests can also order buffalo shrimp, signature customized chicken sandwiches and waffle fries.
Hoots Wings partnered with all major delivery services to bring orders directly to consumers. Demand for delivery and takeout skyrocketed during COVID-19, when many restaurants closed their dining rooms to slow the spread of the virus.
Franchise opportunities available
Hoots Wings recently launched a franchise opportunity. Franchisees will receive hands-on training through the opening process, marketing support, site selection and construction assistance, access to an existing supply chain and a POS system.
“Our franchise owners get to take advantage of established franchise support infrastructure that is designed to help them succeed,” Mark Whittle, Chief Development Officer of Hoots Franchising, LLC, said in a statement.
“We’ve spent the last three years proving our business model before we made the decision to franchise, and we have one of the most comprehensive training and ongoing support platforms in the entire industry. Our only goal as a brand is to help our franchise owners run and own profitable businesses, and we will work day-in and day-out to help their restaurants thrive and prosper.”
The brand plans to open up to 17 locations in 2020, with a focus in the Southeast, Midwest and Northeast. Ultimately, the Hooters offshoot expects to reach 100 units by 2023.
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