Everything’s Bigger in Texas: Buffalo Wings & Rings’ Success in the Lone Star State

With over 30 years in business, seven consecutive years of unit growth and 16 quarters in a row of positive same store sales increases, it’s clear that Buffalo Wings & Rings is savoring some much-deserved success.

However, while the brand has enjoyed prosperity in many areas of the country, it’s seeing particular success in Texas.

One component not to be ignored is Texans’ love of flavorful food, said Dan Doulen, director of franchise development at Buffalo Wings & Rings. And beyond a wide variety of flavors, guests in Texas can also satisfy their cravings for a little spice with the brand’s different wing heat levels.

Texas demographics

The demographics of the Lone Star State also play an important role.

“We do well with Hispanics, and it’s a growing segment of the population,” Doulen said.

In fact, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanics and Latinos make up 38.4 percent of the Texas population, more than double the figure for the country as a whole.

Economic factors

Of course, the Texas economy also plays an integral part in Buffalo Wings & Rings’ success.

“Texas markets remained strong while other states were affected by a down economy after 2008,” Doulen continued.

Together with strong franchisees who are motivated to grow with the brand, this has contributed to prosperous circumstances in the nation’s second largest and second-most populous state.

Expansion plans

The brand plans to expand further in its current markets in South Texas, as well as work with operators who want to open up multiple locations in larger markets like Dallas, San Antonio and Houston. This is all in keeping with Buffalo Wings & Rings’ overall national expansion goals. The brand has made it clear it wants to continue to grow in markets in which it already has open locations, focusing on working with multi-unit operators in larger areas.

With franchisee satisfaction rates high, there’s no doubt many current owners will be jumping at the chance to expand their reach with the brand in Texas and beyond.

After all, what better way to make friends than by serving up delicious food and profitable business opportunities to customers and franchisees alike?