News

Wingstop to open 1st Cincinnati unit

June 6, 2013

Wingstop is expanding in Ohio by signing a four-store development agreement to grow its presence throughout the Cincinnati area, according to a company press release. The agreement is with Los Pollos Hermanos, a group comprised of long-time business partners and Cincinnati residents, Maurice Vilaboy and John Wacker.

Prior to signing with Wingstop, Wacker owned and operated a regional retail chain with 14 locations based out of Cincinnati, and Vilaboy ran the business as the head of distribution, information technology and marketing.

After deciding to pursue a restaurant business venture, the partners knew they wanted to open a fast casual concept and through their research, landed on Wingstop.

"Being a native of Cincinnati, I wanted to bring together two things that locals love – homemade food and chicken wings," said Vilaboy. "We didn't want to open another sandwich shop or burger place, and with Wingstop we found a concept with fresh, made-to-order wings and awesome homemade sides. It has a simple operating platform and focus on a quality product. That was important to us as operators."

Texas-based Wingstop has one restaurant in Cleveland and one in Columbus, with plans to add two stores in the Columbus area this summer. Vilaboy and Wacker's location will be the first for Cincinnati.

"We're currently in the process of looking at sites in the Western Hills area and plan to open our first location this fall," added Wacker. "Cincinnati is a new market for the Wingstop brand and we are excited to introduce new fans to the wings."

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