Franchising

Hooters launches franchising program for fast casual spin-off

December 9, 2020

Hoots, a fast casual brand launched four years ago by Hooters, has rolled out a franchise plan for the up-and-coming seven-unit brand. Plans call for up to 17 locations in 2021, 35 in 2022 and 50 more locations in 2023. Key regions for expansion in 2021 include the Southeast, Midwest and Northeast, according to a company press release.

HOA Brands, the franchisor and operator of over 400 Hooters restaurants in 42 states and 27 countries, has added three Hoots franchises in its home market of Atlanta.

"With only a few national competitors and an unmet demand, hoots wings is ready to become a dominant player in the wing industry," Sal Melilli, CEO of HOA Brands and creator of hoots wings. "We've built a strong model that is well suited for the trends of tomorrow and years to come, and that has resulted in impressive unit level economics."

Hoots is unique in its simple operations, the company said because it only takes two pieces of kitchen equipment to make the full menu. Compared to concepts that require full kitchens with more elaborate equipment, Hoots is on the lower end of brand investments. It's also set up well for delivery, catering or to-go orders, Melilli said.

The menu features breaded bone-in, naked bone-in, boneless, smoked and roasted wings with more than a dozen sauce and rub options. It also offers includes buffalo shrimp, chicken sandwiches and waffle fries.

Hoots is seeking qualified franchisees with an entrepreneurial spirit and prior restaurant experience, or experience in a relevant industry. Franchisees with strong ties to the community where they plan to open a Hoots is a bonus, Melilli said.

Franchisees will receive hands-on training through the opening process, marketing support, site selection and construction assistance, access to an existing supply chain and a top-tier POS system, according to the release.