Franchising

Woody’s Bar-B-Q hires franchise development leader to fuel expansion

Provided

January 20, 2023

Woody's Bar-B-Q, a 43-year-old fast casual brand born in Florida, has hired Steve Gardner, the founder of QSR Franchise Development Group, to expand its footprint within and beyond the Sunshine State's borders. As director of franchise development, he will lead a growth charge in Florida, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi.

"There's a real niche for the Woody's Bar-B-Q product," Gardner said in a company press release. "Slow-smoked barbecue is a segment that is under served in certain parts of the country. But before we make those introductions, we're looking to solidify and expand brand recognition in the South in markets where barbecue is considered popular fare. Given the exceptional quality of its food, Woody's can go toe-to-toe with any barbecue brand. Beyond its menu, I believe the Woody's Bar-B-Q story, the longevity of the brand and the knowledge of its founders will really resonate with prospective franchisees and patrons alike — just as they did for me."

Co-founded by Woody Mills and Yolanda Mills-Mawman, Woody's Bar-B-Q debuted in 1980 with one location in Jacksonville, Florida. Although the majority of its franchise locations are concentrated in Florida, there is one franchise in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. Three locations — including the original restaurant — are company-owned.

To kick off the growth plan, Woody's has teamed up with Lead Navigators to create and maintain a social media-based lead generation campaign.

"To find the right brand partners, we've raised the bar on qualifications — mainly seeking well-capitalized candidates with a wealth of restaurant experience," Gardner said in the release. "We are already witnessing a lot of viable interest in Florida, Texas and North Carolina, but have received inquiries as far away as Oklahoma. What really sets Woody's apart is its immersive training program and close-knit family culture. When you become a Woody's Bar-B-Q franchisee, you become a part of the family. That's evident in the number of people who have worked or franchised with them forever. That family feel extends to Woody's fan base, further securing its place as a go-to destination for locals in the communities where its franchises are based."