Wild Birds Unlimited on Pace for Another Impressive Year of Growth

The franchise reported several metrics from the first quarter of 2021 indicating its ability to build on the successes of 2020. The brand has already awarded two new locations, with increases in both lead flow and full applications. Additionally, existing stores saw a continued trend of double digit same-store sales increase compared to the first quarter of 2020.

“We were thrilled with last year’s performance, not just because of the challenges our system overcame but because of how it set the foundation for 2021,” said WBU Chief Development Officer Paul Pickett. “It’s exciting to see our franchise build on that foundation with both expansion and the continued success of our owners. We’re energized to have so much early success and to cultivate the trends we’re seeing for the rest of the year.”

Wild Birds Unlimited expects to award another four new franchise locations by the end of the second quarter. The first quarter saw lead generation rise by 40% and more than an 80% surge in applications. The brand previously stated its aim to add 10 new franchise locations in 2021, and the combination of Q1 success and early Q2 trends would put the brand firmly on target for that goal.

“Our team has been hard at work to continue supporting our existing franchisees while welcoming so many interested applicants,” Pickett said. “It’s clear that our recent success and the growth of the industry has generated real excitement about our model and serving the passion for birders across the country.”