Saladworks, Dickey’s Barbecue Go ‘Non-Traditional’ With New Walmart Partnership

Walmart, Wally World, Walm — no matter which nickname you use for it, everyone knows Walmart is successful, which is why brands like Saladworks and Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants have partnered with the corporation to grow their franchises in 2021.

Walmart successfully navigated the pandemic with a shift to online ordering, delivery, and pickup services that contributed to a 6.7% revenue increase in 2020 for a whopping total of $559 million for the fiscal year.

Such success has caught the attention of franchisors that are hoping to skyrocket in the new year.

Through its partnership with Ghost Kitchen Brands, which already operates multiple kitchens in Walmarts throughout the U.S., Saladworks will be adding 90 locations inside of Walmarts by the end of 2021. The locations will offer carryout, delivery and indoor seating.

Ghost Kitchens offers well-known and comforting food brands in one kitchen and location. Saladworks will be the newest addition to Ghost Kitchens’ multibrand operation.

“Ghost kitchens have already proven to be an economical and highly successful expansion tactic for us,” said Eric Lavinder, chief development officer for Saladworks parent company, WOWorks, in a recent news release. “This new deal with Ghost Kitchen Brands will allow us to continue solidifying Saladworks as the leading fast-casual salad brand.”

Dickey’s Barbecue has been partners with Walmart since 2016, the year they started offering their branded products in more than 1,000 Walmart stores. But in 2021, the brand is seeking to expand its partnership and increase its revenue — by selling their side dishes, seasonings and sauces in more than 2,000 Walmart stores across the country.