Wingers
Winger's Alehouse franchises offer award-winning wings and craft beer in casual dining restaurants. Known for their signature Original Wings, the brand requires significant investment ranging from $419,800 to over $8 million for multiple locations. Part of the quick-service restaurant industry.
Wingers franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a Wingers Alehouse™ franchise ranges from $419,800 to $1,709,000. This includes a mandatory payment of $40,000 to the franchisor or an affiliate [p.2].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is $40,000 [p.10]. This fee must be paid in one lump sum by wire transfer or certified check at the time of execution of the Agreement and is non-refundable [p.58, p.16].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
Ongoing royalty fees are based on a percentage of net revenue and are non-refundable [p.15]. These fees are in consideration for the right to use the franchisor's intellectual property and certain confidential information, not as payment for specific services rendered [p.58]. Additionally, the franchisee must pay advertising fees, though the exact amount is not specified in these excerpts; the franchisor has the right to maintain and administer a national advertising fund for marketing purposes [p.25].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
To sell or transfer your franchise, you must first obtain written approval from the franchisor as per [p.82]. The transferee needs to complete and submit all required application documents and be approved by the franchisor. Additionally, the terms of the proposed transfer should not negatively impact the future viability of the Franchise Business in the franchisor's reasonable judgment. The transfer fee is $5,000 per undeveloped franchise plus the active franchise fees, with a training fee of $200 per person per day and all related travel, food, and lodging expenses to be paid by you or the transferee [p.166].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
The FDD does not specify exact net worth or liquid capital requirements for franchisees. It mentions that financial resources are considered [p.81], but the specific amounts are not detailed in these excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
No, you do not receive an exclusive territory. The FDD indicates that while the franchisor will not establish another traditional franchise or company-owned unit within your territory as long as you comply with the agreement, you may face competition from other franchisees and outlets owned by the franchisor [p.30]. This also applies to area development agreements where you are guaranteed the ability to open required units but other franchisees can develop in the same area [p.31].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides initial training for new franchisees unless they have previously trained the transferee. The cost includes travel, food, and lodging for trainers [p.82]. However, the specific details of ongoing support are not detailed in these excerpts.
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
Based on the provided excerpts, as of 2022, there were 9 other franchised restaurants in the Winger's® system. However, this information does not specify the number of closed or terminated outlets. This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor does not make any financial performance representations other than the preceding one. However, if you are purchasing an existing outlet, they may provide actual records of that outlet [p.43]. Additionally, written substantiation for the financial performance representation can be provided upon reasonable request [p.43].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You must sell only the products and services specified and approved in writing by the franchisor [p.35]. You are also required to use only the approved recipes and prepare items in specific portions, sizes, appearance, taste, and packaging as detailed in the manuals or otherwise written [p.70]. Regarding supplies, you may have to buy or lease certain items from the franchisor or a limited group of suppliers they designate, which might be more expensive than other options [p.4].