In 2003, Northern California-based Jim and Sharon Toal opened their first Wingstop restaurant after looking for an additional business to fund their retirement. Over the years, they’ve enjoyed their partnership with the brand and encourage those seeking out franchise opportunities to get to know The Wingstop Way and meet with other brand partners to hear about their experience with Wingstop.
Wingstop is probably one of the most supportive systems that that I've come across. After talking with several other brand partners from other concepts, I can tell you that it’s truly a partnership for us.
What made you want to become a brand partner?
In 2003, we were looking into additional business opportunities to help fund our retirement, and at that time, Wingstop was new to this area. We really liked the food and concept, so we decided to take a chance.
Going into it, we heard Wingstop was a franchise-friendly company, and I’d have to say that we’ve had a great experience throughout. I always tell people going into a new franchise to really get to know the company through values and other brand partners. The reality is if you don’t have confidence that the brand will be supportive of you, then you’re going to have problems. In many cases, Wingstop is probably one of the most supportive systems that that I’ve come across. After talking with several other brand partners from other concepts, I can tell you that it’s truly a partnership for us.
What’s the most rewarding thing about being a brand partner?
The first is the excitement that people have when they start talking about wings and their favorite flavor. The other thing is seeing the young team members who go through our restaurants and continue progressing throughout their career.
I’d also say that we are pretty involved with the community. We have numerous events that we show up to with our tent and provide wings. We give lots of gift cards to charities.
Do you have any tips for entrepreneurs?
- Do your due diligence and research a company before thinking about joining
- Make sure you can financially support it
- Be passionate about it
If you’re curious about becoming a brand partner with Wingstop, please visit wingstop.com/own-a-wingstop for more information.
