STRATEGIC PARTNERS
January 11, 2019
New York City-based Mighty Quinn's Barbeque is opening its first franchised location later this year as part of a multi-unit development agreement with Long Island native Jason Wotman.
"Obviously growing up on Long Island, barbeque was not really a thing, and I can't remember having a good barbeque meal in the area," Wotman said in a company press release. "However, after my experience living in Nashville, barbeque is almost like a sport and a way of life. Everywhere you walk, there is a barbeque joint and they are all delicious. I knew at some point that I wanted to bring that type of barbeque to Long Island."
Wotman's first restaurant will open in late 2019, in Nassau County. Before deciding to franchise with Mighty Quinn's, Wotman owned a catering company called Tailwaiters, which catered at tailgates and concerts. He also previously worked in technology and startup strategy.
"Taking high-quality barbeque and turning it into a fast-casual concept is something that has not really been done before," he said. "I think it's the whole experience that gets me the most excited. When you go to the counter you see the smoker and it feels like you're being taken to the south for a moment because everyone is super friendly and wants to make you feel welcomed and enjoy great barbeque."
With Wotman spearheading franchise development on Long Island, the corporate team is looking to add 10 to 12 additional franchised locations across New York and New Jersey by 2020, Mighty Quinn's Barbeque co-founder and Pitmaster Hugh Mangum, said in the release. The company is also eyeing development with qualified franchise partners across the country.
"Jason is going to do an amazing job growing Mighty Quinn's in Long Island, Mangum said. "He is passionate about the brand, and already has a great food and hospitality background to build from.
The startup costs for a Mighty Quinn's Barbeque franchise range from $581,750 to $1,113,750 with a franchise fee of $45,000.
"As we continue franchising, we are looking forward to partnering with other like-minded people who want to open community-minded, great-tasting barbeque restaurants with us, Mangum said.
