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Buffalo Wild Wings: Difference between revisions

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{{short description|American sports bar and restaurant chain}}
{{short description|American sports bar and restaurant chain}}{{Advert|date=May 2024}}{{Update|part=infobox|reason=Operating income, net income, total assets and total equity stats are 7 years old|date=December 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2019}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2019}}
{{Infobox company
{{Infobox company
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| logo = Buffalo Wild Wings (logo, vertical).svg
| logo = Buffalo Wild Wings (logo, vertical).svg
| logo_size = 100px
| logo_size = 100px
| image = File:Buffalo Wild Wings, Tifton.jpg
| image_caption = A Buffalo Wild Wings in [[Tifton, Georgia|Tifton]], Tift County, Georgia
| image_size = 270px
| former_names = Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck (1982–1998)
| former_names = Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck (1982–1998)
| type = [[Subsidiary]]
| type = [[Subsidiary]]
| industry = [[Restaurant]]
| industry = [[Restaurant]]
| foundation = {{start date and age|1982}} in [[Columbus, Ohio|Columbus]], [[Ohio]], [[United States|U.S.]] as Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck
| foundation = {{start date and age|1982}} in [[Columbus, Ohio|Columbus]], [[Ohio]], [[United States|U.S.]] as Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck
| founders = {{nowrap|[[James Disbrow|Jim Disbrow]]}}<br>{{nowrap|Scott Lowery}}<br>{{nowrap|Bernard Spencer}}{{Citation needed|date=April 2020}}<br/>
| founders = {{nowrap|[[James Disbrow|Jim Disbrow]]}}<br>{{nowrap|Scott Lowery}}
{{nowrap|Elizabeth Brock}}{{Citation needed|date=April 2020}}<br>{{nowrap|Mackenzie Barnett}}{{Citation needed|date=April 2020}}
| location = [[Atlanta]], [[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]], [[United States|U.S.]]
| location = [[Atlanta]], [[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]], [[United States|U.S.]]
| locations = 1,278 (January 2023)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/top-500-chains-2020/buffalo-wild-wings |title=Buffalo Wild Wings|publisher=Entrepreneur|date=12 November 2020}}</ref>
| locations = 1,278 (January 2023)<ref name=500chains>{{cite web|url=https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/top-500-chains-2020/buffalo-wild-wings|title=Buffalo Wild Wings|publisher=Entrepreneur|date=12 November 2020|access-date=November 12, 2020|archive-date=November 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109213639/https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/top-500-chains-2020/buffalo-wild-wings|url-status=live}}</ref>
| area_served = [[United States]]<br>[[Mexico]]<br>[[Philippines]]<br>[[Saudi Arabia]]<br>[[United Arab Emirates]]<br>[[Panama]]<br>[[Oman]] (formerly)<br>[[India]]<br>[[Vietnam]] (formerly)
| area_served = [[Canada]] (formerly)<br>[[United States]]<br>[[Mexico]]<br>[[Philippines]]<br>[[Saudi Arabia]]<br>[[Bahrain]]<br>[[United Arab Emirates]]<br>[[Panama]]<br>[[Oman]] (formerly)<br>[[India]]<br>[[Vietnam]] (formerly)
| key_people = Paul Brown - CEO
| key_people = Paul Brown - CEO
| products = Chicken Wings, Shareables, Burgers, Beer
| products = Chicken Wings, Shareables, Burgers, Beer
| revenue = $3.669 billion (2020)<ref name=500chains />
| revenue = $3.669 billion (2020)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/top-500-chains-2020/buffalo-wild-wings|title=Buffalo Wild Wings |publisher=Restaurant Business |date=11 November 2020}}</ref>
| operating_income = {{nowrap|{{decrease}} {{US$}}136.70 million {{small|(2016)}}}}
| operating_income = {{nowrap|{{decrease}} {{US$}}136.70 million {{small|(2016)}}}}
| net_income = {{nowrap|{{decrease}} {{US$}}94.21 million {{small|(2016)}}}}
| net_income = {{nowrap|{{decrease}} {{US$}}94.21 million {{small|(2016)}}}}
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| equity = {{nowrap|{{decrease}} {{US$}}517.90 million {{small|(2016)}}}}
| equity = {{nowrap|{{decrease}} {{US$}}517.90 million {{small|(2016)}}}}
| num_employees = {{nowrap|~44,000 {{small|(2016)}}}}
| num_employees = {{nowrap|~44,000 {{small|(2016)}}}}
| parent = [[Independent business|Independent]] (1982–2018)<br>[[Inspire Brands]] (2018–present)
| parent = [[Inspire Brands]] (2018–present)
| subsid =
| subsid =
| homepage = {{url|https://www.buffalowildwings.com/}}
| homepage = {{url|https://www.buffalowildwings.com/}}
| footnotes = <ref name="10-K 2016">{{cite web|url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1062449/000106244917000013/bwld2016122510-k.htm|title=US SEC: Form 10-K Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc.|publisher=[[United States Securities and Exchange Commission]]|access-date=January 18, 2018}}</ref>
| footnotes = <ref name="10-K 2016">{{cite web|url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1062449/000106244917000013/bwld2016122510-k.htm|title=US SEC: Form 10-K Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc.|publisher=[[United States Securities and Exchange Commission]]|access-date=January 18, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170909164321/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1062449/000106244917000013/bwld2016122510-k.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}
}}


'''Buffalo Wild Wings''' (originally '''Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck''',<ref>{{cite web|title=BUFFALO WILD WINGS – A Brief History|date=2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150701182341/http://www.buffalowildwings.com/Global/Company%20History%208%2029%2012%20Final.pdf#|archive-date=July 1, 2015|url=https://www.buffalowildwings.com/Global/Company%20History%208%2029%2012%20Final.pdf|access-date=July 7, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> hence the nickname '''BW3''', or '''BDubs''') is an American [[Types of restaurant#Casual dining|casual dining restaurant]] and [[sports bar]] franchise in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], [[India]], [[Mexico]], [[Panama]], [[Philippines]], [[Saudi Arabia]], and [[United Arab Emirates]] which specializes in [[Buffalo wing]]s and [[sauce]]s.
'''Buffalo Wild Wings''' (originally '''Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck''',<ref>{{cite web|title=BUFFALO WILD WINGS – A Brief History|date=2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150701182341/http://www.buffalowildwings.com/Global/Company%20History%208%2029%2012%20Final.pdf#|archive-date=July 1, 2015|url=https://www.buffalowildwings.com/Global/Company%20History%208%2029%2012%20Final.pdf|access-date=July 7, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> and nicknamed '''BW3''', or '''BDubs''' or '''BWW''') is an American [[Types of restaurant#Casual dining|casual dining restaurant]] and [[sports bar]] franchise in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], [[India]], [[Mexico]], [[Panama]], [[Philippines]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Bahrain]], and [[United Arab Emirates]] which specializes in [[Buffalo wing]]s and [[sauce]]s.


As of November 2020, it had 1,279 locations across all 50 U.S. states and DC. The company is operated out of [[Atlanta, Georgia]], home to its parent company, [[Inspire Brands]], in the Sandy Springs district just north of downtown [[Atlanta]]. However, Inspire still maintains a support center in [[Minneapolis|Minneapolis, Minnesota]], the location of its previous headquarters.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2018/02/05/buffalo-wild-wings-will-be-run-out-of-atlanta-as.html |title=Buffalo Wild Wings will be run out of Atlanta as Arby's deal closes |first=Mark |last=Reilly |publisher=St. Paul Business Journal |website=bizjournals.com |date=Feb 5, 2018 |access-date=2019-09-09}}</ref>
As of November 2020, it had 1,279 locations across all 50 U.S. states and DC. The company is operated out of [[Atlanta, Georgia]], home to its parent company, [[Inspire Brands]], in the Sandy Springs district just north of downtown [[Atlanta]]. However, Inspire still maintains a support center in [[Minneapolis|Minneapolis, Minnesota]], the location of its previous headquarters.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2018/02/05/buffalo-wild-wings-will-be-run-out-of-atlanta-as.html |title=Buffalo Wild Wings will be run out of Atlanta as Arby's deal closes |first=Mark |last=Reilly |publisher=St. Paul Business Journal |website=bizjournals.com |date=Feb 5, 2018 |access-date=2019-09-09 |url-access=subscription}}</ref>


==History==
==History==
[[File:CBW3logoedit.png|thumb|left|Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck first logo]]
[[File:CBW3logoedit.png|thumb|left|Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck first logo]]


Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck (BW3) was founded in 1982 by [[James Disbrow]] and Scott Lowery, whose parents were Disbrow's ice skating coaches and guardians when he was younger. Meeting up after Disbrow had finished judging an amateur figure skating competition at [[Kent State University]] in Ohio, the pair were unable to locate a restaurant that served Buffalo-style chicken wings. They decided to open their own restaurant, selecting a location near the [[Ohio State University]] in Columbus. The "[[Kaiser roll#Variations|Weck]]" in the original title refers to [[beef on weck]], a sandwich originally served at the restaurant.<ref name=idch>{{cite book|title=International Directory of Company Histories, Vol. 56|date=2004|publisher=St. James Press |via=FundingUniverse|chapter-url=http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/buffalo-wild-wings-inc-history/|access-date=February 7, 2018|language=en|chapter=History of Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc}}</ref>
Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck (BW3) was founded in 1982 by [[James Disbrow]] and Scott Lowery, whose parents were Disbrow's ice skating coaches and guardians when he was younger. Meeting up in [[Kent, Ohio]], after Disbrow had finished judging an amateur figure skating competition at [[Kent State University]], the pair were unable to locate a restaurant that served Buffalo-style chicken wings. They decided to open their own restaurant, selecting a location near the [[Ohio State University]] in Columbus. The "[[Kaiser roll#Variations|Weck]]" in the original title refers to [[beef on weck]], a sandwich originally served at the restaurant.<ref name=idch>{{cite book|title=International Directory of Company Histories, Vol. 56|date=2004|publisher=St. James Press|via=FundingUniverse|chapter-url=http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/buffalo-wild-wings-inc-history/|access-date=February 7, 2018|language=en|chapter=History of Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc|archive-date=March 29, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220329080012/http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/buffalo-wild-wings-inc-history/|url-status=live}}</ref>


Within six months of opening, the pair brought on an additional partner, Mark Lutz. Over the next decade, they added six additional locations in Ohio, Indiana, and Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The company began to franchise in 1992 by working with Francorp, a Chicago-based law firm. The original franchise fee was $15,000 to $20,000 plus a percentage of sales. Its bottled wing sauces were then manufactured by Wilsey, Inc. of Atlanta. The company's headquarters was set up in 1992 in Cincinnati. By 1993, eight more locations were added, primarily in Ohio.<ref name=idch/>
Within six months of opening, the pair brought on an additional partner, Mark Lutz. Over the next decade, they added six additional locations in Ohio, Indiana, and Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The company began to franchise in 1992 by working with Francorp, a Chicago-based law firm. The original franchise fee was $15,000 to $20,000 plus a percentage of sales. Its bottled wing sauces were then manufactured by Wilsey, Inc. of Atlanta. The company's headquarters was set up in 1992 in Cincinnati. By 1993, eight more locations were added, primarily in Ohio.<ref name=idch/>
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Disbrow died in October 2002, while Smith continued as company executive with Lowery as vice president of franchise construction. There were 211 locations in 27 states by the end of third quarter of 2003.<ref name=idch/>
Disbrow died in October 2002, while Smith continued as company executive with Lowery as vice president of franchise construction. There were 211 locations in 27 states by the end of third quarter of 2003.<ref name=idch/>


In 2010, the company announced an expansion into Canada.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.torontosun.com/money/2010/08/18/15062946.html|title=Buffalo Wild Wings coming to Canada |last=Singleton|first=Sharon|newspaper=[[Toronto Sun]]|date=August 18, 2010|access-date=August 19, 2010}}</ref> In 2015, Buffalo Wild Wings expanded in the [[United Arab Emirates]] when it opened a restaurant in [[Dubai]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thenational.ae/blogs/bites/dubai-foodie-news-buffalo-wild-wings-opens-on-jumeirah-road-new-brunches-and-more |title=Dubai Foodie News: Buffalo Wild Wings opens on Jumeirah Road, new brunches and more |work=[[The National (Abu Dhabi)|The National]] |author=Overton Johnson, Stacie |date=September 6, 2015 |access-date=November 1, 2016}}</ref>
In 2010, the company announced an expansion into Canada.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.torontosun.com/money/2010/08/18/15062946.html|title=Buffalo Wild Wings coming to Canada|last=Singleton|first=Sharon|newspaper=[[Toronto Sun]]|date=August 18, 2010|access-date=August 19, 2010|archive-date=January 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160113212218/http://www.torontosun.com/money/2010/08/18/15062946.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2015, Buffalo Wild Wings expanded in the [[United Arab Emirates]] when it opened a restaurant in [[Dubai]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thenational.ae/blogs/bites/dubai-foodie-news-buffalo-wild-wings-opens-on-jumeirah-road-new-brunches-and-more |title=Dubai Foodie News: Buffalo Wild Wings opens on Jumeirah Road, new brunches and more |work=[[The National (Abu Dhabi)|The National]] |author=Overton Johnson, Stacie |date=September 6, 2015 |access-date=November 1, 2016 |archive-date=November 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104015932/http://www.thenational.ae/blogs/bites/dubai-foodie-news-buffalo-wild-wings-opens-on-jumeirah-road-new-brunches-and-more |url-status=live }}</ref> In March 2023, there were 12 Canadian locations, however by June, all Canadian locations closed down.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Waddell |first1=Dave |title=The American sports bar chain Buffalo Wild Wings has closed in Windsor |url=https://windsorstar.com/news/local-news/the-american-sports-bar-chain-buffalo-wild-wings-has-closed-in-windsor |website=Windsor Star |access-date=27 June 2023}}</ref>


In March 2013, the company took a minority stake in PizzaRev upscale pizza restaurant.<ref>{{cite news|title=Buffalo Wild Wings dips into pizza business|url=https://www.gomn.com/news/buffalo-wild-wings-dips-into-pizza-business|access-date=February 7, 2018|work=GoMN|publisher=KQGO-FM|date=March 19, 2013|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180208123557/https://www.gomn.com/news/buffalo-wild-wings-dips-into-pizza-business|archive-date=February 8, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> In August 2014, BW3 had purchased a majority stake in Rusty Taco chain<ref>{{cite news |last1=Griswold |first1=Alison |title=Buffalo Wild Wings Invests in Tacos and Pizza|url=http://www.slate.com/blogs/moneybox/2014/08/25/buffalo_wild_wings_invests_in_rusty_taco_and_pizzarev.html |access-date=February 7, 2018|work=Slate|date=August 25, 2014}}</ref> and changed its name to R Taco the next year.<ref>{{cite news|title=Buffalo Wild Wings' Fast Casual R Taco Unveils Expansion Plans|url=https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/buffalo-wild-wings-fast-casual-r-taco-unveils-expansion-plans|access-date=February 7, 2018|work=QSR magazine|publisher=Journalistic Inc.|date=November 3, 2016|language=en}}</ref>
In March 2013, the company took a minority stake in PizzaRev upscale pizza restaurant.<ref>{{cite news|title=Buffalo Wild Wings dips into pizza business|url=https://www.gomn.com/news/buffalo-wild-wings-dips-into-pizza-business|access-date=February 7, 2018|work=GoMN|publisher=KQGO-FM|date=March 19, 2013|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180208123557/https://www.gomn.com/news/buffalo-wild-wings-dips-into-pizza-business|archive-date=February 8, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> In August 2014, BW3 had purchased a majority stake in Rusty Taco chain<ref>{{cite news|last1=Griswold|first1=Alison|title=Buffalo Wild Wings Invests in Tacos and Pizza|url=http://www.slate.com/blogs/moneybox/2014/08/25/buffalo_wild_wings_invests_in_rusty_taco_and_pizzarev.html|access-date=February 7, 2018|work=Slate|date=August 25, 2014|archive-date=February 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180208064240/http://www.slate.com/blogs/moneybox/2014/08/25/buffalo_wild_wings_invests_in_rusty_taco_and_pizzarev.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and changed its name to R Taco the next year.<ref>{{cite news|title=Buffalo Wild Wings' Fast Casual R Taco Unveils Expansion Plans|url=https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/buffalo-wild-wings-fast-casual-r-taco-unveils-expansion-plans|access-date=February 7, 2018|work=QSR magazine|publisher=Journalistic Inc.|date=November 3, 2016|language=en|archive-date=February 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180208123405/https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/buffalo-wild-wings-fast-casual-r-taco-unveils-expansion-plans|url-status=live}}</ref>


In November 2017, [[Roark Capital Group]] and [[The Wendy's Company]], co-owners of [[Arby's]] Restaurant Group, announced its plan to purchase the chain for about $2.4 billion plus debt.<ref name="Arby's to acquire Buffalo Wild Wings">{{cite web|last1=Bomey|first1=Nathan|title=Arby's to acquire Buffalo Wild Wings for $2.4B in restaurant shakeup|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2017/11/28/arbys-buffalo-wild-wings/900520001/|website=USA Today|publisher=USA Today|access-date=November 28, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Isidore|first1=Chris|title=Arby's is buying Buffalo Wild Wings|url=https://money.cnn.com/2017/11/28/news/companies/arbys-buffalo-wild-wings/index.html|website=[[CNN Money]]|date=November 28, 2017 |access-date=November 28, 2017}}</ref> This deal was completed on February 5, 2018 with Arby's Restaurant Group being renamed [[Inspire Brands]] and set up as the holding parent company to Arby's, Buffalo Wild Wings, and R Taco. Inspire Brands intends for each restaurant to keep their individual brands, name, logos, and operating autonomously.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Thorn|first1=Bret|title=Arby's, Buffalo Wild Wings new parent Inspire Brands debuts|url=http://www.nrn.com/mergers-acquisitions/arby-s-buffalo-wild-wings-new-parent-inspire-brands-debuts|access-date=February 7, 2018|work=Nation's Restaurant News|date=February 5, 2018}}</ref> On September 5, 2018, Inspire Brands subsidiary R Taco announced it was changing its name back to Rusty Taco. In 2019, Buffalo Wild Wings announced a multiyear deal with [[MGM Resorts International]] and its sports betting venture Roar Digital. In 2020, Buffalo Wild Wings announced a national partnership the [[League of Legends Championship Series]] (LCS).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/27540471/buffalo-wild-wings-mgm-partner-sports-betting|title=Buffalo Wild Wings, MGM partner on sports betting|publisher=ESPN|date=5 September 2019}}</ref> During the [[2022 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament]], Buffalo Wild Wings signed a sponsorship deal with [[Doug Edert]], a breakout star of the [[2021–22 Saint Peter's Peacocks men's basketball team|Saint Peter's]] team that went on to become the first 15-seed ever to make a regional tournament final.{{efn|Each of the four regionals in the main tournament draw has 16 teams, seeded from 1–16, with the regional winners advancing to the Final Four at a predetermined site.}}<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/march-madness-saint-peters-star-doug-edert-signs-nil-deal-with-buffalo-wild-wings-launches-clothing-line/ |title=March Madness: Saint Peter's star Doug Edert signs NIL deal with Buffalo Wild Wings, launches clothing line |first=Kyle |last=Boone |website=CBSSports.com |date=March 22, 2022 |access-date=August 25, 2022}}</ref>
In November 2017, [[Roark Capital Group]] and [[The Wendy's Company]], co-owners of [[Arby's]] Restaurant Group, announced its plan to purchase the chain for about $2.4 billion plus debt.<ref name="Arby's to acquire Buffalo Wild Wings">{{cite web|last1=Bomey|first1=Nathan|title=Arby's to acquire Buffalo Wild Wings for $2.4B in restaurant shakeup|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2017/11/28/arbys-buffalo-wild-wings/900520001/|website=USA Today|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-date=September 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927175903/https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2017/11/28/arbys-buffalo-wild-wings/900520001/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Isidore|first1=Chris|title=Arby's is buying Buffalo Wild Wings|url=https://money.cnn.com/2017/11/28/news/companies/arbys-buffalo-wild-wings/index.html|website=[[CNN Money]]|date=November 28, 2017|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171128161851/http://money.cnn.com/2017/11/28/news/companies/arbys-buffalo-wild-wings/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> This deal was completed on February 5, 2018 with Arby's Restaurant Group being renamed [[Inspire Brands]] and set up as the holding parent company to Arby's, Buffalo Wild Wings, and R Taco. Inspire Brands intends for each restaurant to keep their individual brands, name, logos, and operating autonomously.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Thorn|first1=Bret|title=Arby's, Buffalo Wild Wings new parent Inspire Brands debuts|url=http://www.nrn.com/mergers-acquisitions/arby-s-buffalo-wild-wings-new-parent-inspire-brands-debuts|access-date=February 7, 2018|work=Nation's Restaurant News|date=February 5, 2018|archive-date=October 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201006223546/https://www.nrn.com/mergers-acquisitions/arby-s-buffalo-wild-wings-new-parent-inspire-brands-debuts/|url-status=live}}</ref> On September 5, 2018, Inspire Brands subsidiary R Taco announced it was changing its name back to Rusty Taco. In 2019, Buffalo Wild Wings announced a multiyear deal with [[MGM Resorts International]] and its sports betting venture Roar Digital. In 2020, Buffalo Wild Wings announced a national partnership the [[League of Legends Championship Series]] (LCS).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/27540471/buffalo-wild-wings-mgm-partner-sports-betting|title=Buffalo Wild Wings, MGM partner on sports betting|publisher=ESPN|date=5 September 2019|access-date=October 23, 2020|archive-date=October 23, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023053129/https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/27540471/buffalo-wild-wings-mgm-partner-sports-betting|url-status=live}}</ref> During the [[2022 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament]], Buffalo Wild Wings signed a sponsorship deal with [[Doug Edert]], a breakout star of the [[2021–22 Saint Peter's Peacocks men's basketball team|Saint Peter's]] team that went on to become the first 15-seed ever to make a regional tournament final.{{efn|Each of the four regionals in the main tournament draw has 16 teams, seeded from 1–16, with the regional winners advancing to the Final Four at a predetermined site.}}<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/march-madness-saint-peters-star-doug-edert-signs-nil-deal-with-buffalo-wild-wings-launches-clothing-line/ |title=March Madness: Saint Peter's star Doug Edert signs NIL deal with Buffalo Wild Wings, launches clothing line |first=Kyle |last=Boone |website=CBSSports.com |date=March 22, 2022 |access-date=August 25, 2022 |archive-date=August 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220825154857/https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/march-madness-saint-peters-star-doug-edert-signs-nil-deal-with-buffalo-wild-wings-launches-clothing-line/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In June 2023, Buffalo Wild Wings had exited the Canadian market after closing its 5 remaining locations in Ontario.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Jacksonville |first1=A. Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant in |last2=Fl. |date=2023-06-28 |title=Buffalo Wild Wings ends its Canadian operations - BNN Bloomberg |url=https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/buffalo-wild-wings-ends-its-canadian-operations-1.1939238 |access-date=2023-07-01 |website=BNN |archive-date=July 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701181050/https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/buffalo-wild-wings-ends-its-canadian-operations-1.1939238 |url-status=live }}</ref>


==Concept==
==Concept==
The chain is best known for [[Buffalo wing|Buffalo-style chicken wings]] along with over a dozen sauces, as well as a complement of other items such as chicken tenders and legs. The chain's menu also features appetizers, burgers, tacos, salads, and desserts, along with beer, wine, and other beverages. They are known for their famous "Blazin Wing Challenge." They challenge customers to eat 12 of their hottest wings under six minutes. The winners receive a free T-shirt. The restaurants feature an open layout with a bar area and patio seating flanked by over 50 televisions and media screens.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=BWLD.O |title=Profile:Buffalo Wild Wings Inc (BWLD.O) |work=[[Reuters]] |access-date=November 1, 2016 |archive-date=November 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104000355/http://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=BWLD.O |url-status=dead }}</ref> Starting in 2016, the new restaurants being built follow a new type of layout that gives the guests the feeling as if they were actually in a sports stadium. Server uniforms consisted of gray shorts and [[jersey (clothing)|jerseys]] with the number 82, signifying the year that the chain was established in 1982.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.grandforksherald.com/accent/food/4109016-marilyn-hagerty-buffalo-wild-wings-hot-spot-students-sports-fans |title=Buffalo Wild Wings a hot spot for students, sports fans |work=[[Grand Forks Herald]] |author=Hagerty, Marilyn |date=September 6, 2016 |access-date=November 1, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104003909/http://www.grandforksherald.com/accent/food/4109016-marilyn-hagerty-buffalo-wild-wings-hot-spot-students-sports-fans |archive-date=November 4, 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In December 2018, the brand unveiled a new restaurant design featuring a more prominent bar area, flexible seating areas, VIP spaces and large arena-like video screens with anti-glare technology.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2018/12/21/buffalo-wild-wings-is-getting-a-major-redesign-heres-a-look-inside.html |title=Buffalo Wild Wings is getting a major redesign. Here's a look inside|publisher=CNBC|date=23 December 2018}}</ref> In 2019, a new uniform was introduced that only includes the company's logo.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Buffalo-Wild-Wings/faq/what-do-you-wear-for-uniform?quid=1co3pl62c5j5m800 |title = What do you wear for uniform {{!}} Buffalo Wild Wings {{!}} Indeed.com}}</ref>
The chain is best known for [[Buffalo wing|Buffalo-style chicken wings]] along with a number of sauces, as well as other chicken products such as tenders and legs, and side dishes, appetizers, and desserts. The chain occasionally has competitive promos, such as a challenge to eat ten wings in under five minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.buffalowildwings.com/blazin-challenge-rules/|title=The Blazin Challenge – Rules & Award &#124; Buffalo Wild Wings|website=www.buffalowildwings.com|access-date=July 12, 2023|archive-date=July 12, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712160756/https://www.buffalowildwings.com/blazin-challenge-rules/|url-status=live}}</ref> The restaurants feature an open layout with a bar area and patio seating flanked by televisions and media screens.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=BWLD.O |title=Profile:Buffalo Wild Wings Inc (BWLD.O) |work=[[Reuters]] |access-date=November 1, 2016 |archive-date=November 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104000355/http://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=BWLD.O |url-status=dead }}</ref> Some new restaurants follow a new layout that is supposed to make diners feel like they are in a sports stadium.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
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{{Establishments serving chicken}}
{{Establishments serving chicken}}
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[[Category:1982 establishments in Ohio]]
[[Category:1982 establishments in Ohio]]
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[[Category:Companies formerly listed on the Nasdaq]]
[[Category:Companies formerly listed on the Nasdaq]]
[[Category:History of Kent, Ohio]]
[[Category:History of Kent, Ohio]]
[[Category:Inspire Brands]]
[[Category:Poultry restaurants]]
[[Category:Poultry restaurants]]
[[Category:Restaurants established in 1982]]
[[Category:Restaurants established in 1982]]
[[Category:Inspire Brands]]
[[Category:Restaurant franchises]]

Revision as of 20:32, 22 May 2024

Buffalo Wild Wings
FormerlyBuffalo Wild Wings & Weck (1982–1998)
Company typeSubsidiary
IndustryRestaurant
Founded1982; 42 years ago (1982) in Columbus, Ohio, U.S. as Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck
FoundersJim Disbrow
Scott Lowery
HeadquartersAtlanta, Georgia, U.S.
Number of locations
1,278 (January 2023)[1]
Area served
Canada (formerly)
United States
Mexico
Philippines
Saudi Arabia
Bahrain
United Arab Emirates
Panama
Oman (formerly)
India
Vietnam (formerly)
Key people
Paul Brown - CEO
ProductsChicken Wings, Shareables, Burgers, Beer
Revenue$3.669 billion (2020)[1]
Decrease US$136.70 million (2016)
Decrease US$94.21 million (2016)
Total assetsDecrease US$1.05 billion (2016)
Total equityDecrease US$517.90 million (2016)
Number of employees
~44,000 (2016)
ParentInspire Brands (2018–present)
Websitewww.buffalowildwings.com
Footnotes / references
[2]

Buffalo Wild Wings (originally Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck,[3] and nicknamed BW3, or BDubs or BWW) is an American casual dining restaurant and sports bar franchise in the United States, Canada, India, Mexico, Panama, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and United Arab Emirates which specializes in Buffalo wings and sauces.

As of November 2020, it had 1,279 locations across all 50 U.S. states and DC. The company is operated out of Atlanta, Georgia, home to its parent company, Inspire Brands, in the Sandy Springs district just north of downtown Atlanta. However, Inspire still maintains a support center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the location of its previous headquarters.[4]

History

Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck first logo

Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck (BW3) was founded in 1982 by James Disbrow and Scott Lowery, whose parents were Disbrow's ice skating coaches and guardians when he was younger. Meeting up in Kent, Ohio, after Disbrow had finished judging an amateur figure skating competition at Kent State University, the pair were unable to locate a restaurant that served Buffalo-style chicken wings. They decided to open their own restaurant, selecting a location near the Ohio State University in Columbus. The "Weck" in the original title refers to beef on weck, a sandwich originally served at the restaurant.[5]

Within six months of opening, the pair brought on an additional partner, Mark Lutz. Over the next decade, they added six additional locations in Ohio, Indiana, and Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The company began to franchise in 1992 by working with Francorp, a Chicago-based law firm. The original franchise fee was $15,000 to $20,000 plus a percentage of sales. Its bottled wing sauces were then manufactured by Wilsey, Inc. of Atlanta. The company's headquarters was set up in 1992 in Cincinnati. By 1993, eight more locations were added, primarily in Ohio.[5]

In late 1994, Disbrow hired a part-time chief financial officer, Sally Smith, who was employed at his new father-in-law's business. In order to get her full-time, the company moved its headquarters to the Minneapolis/Saint Paul area, where Smith wished to stay. Smith had to deal with issues with lenders and the Internal Revenue Service and a potential bankruptcy as a part of overhauling the firm's finances. Smith was unable to determine the firm's net income/loss prior to 1995, due to the trio's haphazard business practices. During 1995, the company did $12 million in revenue with a loss of $1.6 million.[5]

Expecting more growth in 1995, BW3 designed a new prototype free-standing outlet with clear separation between the bar and dining areas and seating 190 in a 5,000- to 7,500-square-foot space. This was a shift in strategy from a college sports-bar to casual dining. The company looked closer at new franchisees' qualifications. Existing franchisees were encouraged to add more locations while more corporate locations were planned. At that time, there were 48 locations with 12 corporate owned.[5]

Smith was promoted to president and CEO in August 1996, while Disbrow became chairman of the board. At the end of the year, 35 new locations were opened. An initial public stock offering was considered in 1998, but discarded given unfavorable market conditions. After using the name variations BW3 and Buffalo Wild Wings in different markets in its first national ad campaign, the decision was made that year to standardize the name throughout the system with the latter. The company moved to increase home sales of their sauces by upgrading the packaging.[5]

The 100th location opened in October 1999 in Apple Valley, Minnesota, a short drive from its corporate headquarters. At the time, there were 23 company owned restaurants. Three venture capital firms and other purchased a majority stake, $8.5 million in shares, available in a December 1999 private placement. The funding was planned to fund expansion with expectation to have 260 sites by late 2003. The company tested several new sauces in 2000 but only added two to the menu with its first dessert. In 2000, the chain, now calling its locations Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar, was in 19 states and 140 locations (at year end) with one finally in the city of its signature menu item, Buffalo, New York.[5]

System-wide revenue was $150 million in 2001 with same-stores averaged growth of 8 percent per year. The company began pushing takeout sales. In late 2001, the company signed on Frito-Lay to its plans for branded potato chips to the retail market.[5]

Disbrow died in October 2002, while Smith continued as company executive with Lowery as vice president of franchise construction. There were 211 locations in 27 states by the end of third quarter of 2003.[5]

In 2010, the company announced an expansion into Canada.[6] In 2015, Buffalo Wild Wings expanded in the United Arab Emirates when it opened a restaurant in Dubai.[7] In March 2023, there were 12 Canadian locations, however by June, all Canadian locations closed down.[8]

In March 2013, the company took a minority stake in PizzaRev upscale pizza restaurant.[9] In August 2014, BW3 had purchased a majority stake in Rusty Taco chain[10] and changed its name to R Taco the next year.[11]

In November 2017, Roark Capital Group and The Wendy's Company, co-owners of Arby's Restaurant Group, announced its plan to purchase the chain for about $2.4 billion plus debt.[12][13] This deal was completed on February 5, 2018 with Arby's Restaurant Group being renamed Inspire Brands and set up as the holding parent company to Arby's, Buffalo Wild Wings, and R Taco. Inspire Brands intends for each restaurant to keep their individual brands, name, logos, and operating autonomously.[14] On September 5, 2018, Inspire Brands subsidiary R Taco announced it was changing its name back to Rusty Taco. In 2019, Buffalo Wild Wings announced a multiyear deal with MGM Resorts International and its sports betting venture Roar Digital. In 2020, Buffalo Wild Wings announced a national partnership the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS).[15] During the 2022 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament, Buffalo Wild Wings signed a sponsorship deal with Doug Edert, a breakout star of the Saint Peter's team that went on to become the first 15-seed ever to make a regional tournament final.[a][16]

In June 2023, Buffalo Wild Wings had exited the Canadian market after closing its 5 remaining locations in Ontario.[17]

Concept

The chain is best known for Buffalo-style chicken wings along with a number of sauces, as well as other chicken products such as tenders and legs, and side dishes, appetizers, and desserts. The chain occasionally has competitive promos, such as a challenge to eat ten wings in under five minutes.[18] The restaurants feature an open layout with a bar area and patio seating flanked by televisions and media screens.[19] Some new restaurants follow a new layout that is supposed to make diners feel like they are in a sports stadium.

Gallery

See also

Footnotes

  1. ^ Each of the four regionals in the main tournament draw has 16 teams, seeded from 1–16, with the regional winners advancing to the Final Four at a predetermined site.

References

  1. ^ a b "Buffalo Wild Wings". Entrepreneur. November 12, 2020. Archived from the original on November 9, 2020. Retrieved November 12, 2020.
  2. ^ "US SEC: Form 10-K Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc". United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Archived from the original on September 9, 2017. Retrieved January 18, 2018.
  3. ^ "BUFFALO WILD WINGS – A Brief History" (PDF). 2012. Archived from the original (PDF) on July 1, 2015. Retrieved July 7, 2017.
  4. ^ Reilly, Mark (February 5, 2018). "Buffalo Wild Wings will be run out of Atlanta as Arby's deal closes". bizjournals.com. St. Paul Business Journal. Retrieved September 9, 2019.
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h "History of Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc". International Directory of Company Histories, Vol. 56. St. James Press. 2004. Archived from the original on March 29, 2022. Retrieved February 7, 2018 – via FundingUniverse.
  6. ^ Singleton, Sharon (August 18, 2010). "Buffalo Wild Wings coming to Canada". Toronto Sun. Archived from the original on January 13, 2016. Retrieved August 19, 2010.
  7. ^ Overton Johnson, Stacie (September 6, 2015). "Dubai Foodie News: Buffalo Wild Wings opens on Jumeirah Road, new brunches and more". The National. Archived from the original on November 4, 2016. Retrieved November 1, 2016.
  8. ^ Waddell, Dave. "The American sports bar chain Buffalo Wild Wings has closed in Windsor". Windsor Star. Retrieved June 27, 2023.
  9. ^ "Buffalo Wild Wings dips into pizza business". GoMN. KQGO-FM. March 19, 2013. Archived from the original on February 8, 2018. Retrieved February 7, 2018.
  10. ^ Griswold, Alison (August 25, 2014). "Buffalo Wild Wings Invests in Tacos and Pizza". Slate. Archived from the original on February 8, 2018. Retrieved February 7, 2018.
  11. ^ "Buffalo Wild Wings' Fast Casual R Taco Unveils Expansion Plans". QSR magazine. Journalistic Inc. November 3, 2016. Archived from the original on February 8, 2018. Retrieved February 7, 2018.
  12. ^ Bomey, Nathan. "Arby's to acquire Buffalo Wild Wings for $2.4B in restaurant shakeup". USA Today. Archived from the original on September 27, 2020. Retrieved November 28, 2017.
  13. ^ Isidore, Chris (November 28, 2017). "Arby's is buying Buffalo Wild Wings". CNN Money. Archived from the original on November 28, 2017. Retrieved November 28, 2017.
  14. ^ Thorn, Bret (February 5, 2018). "Arby's, Buffalo Wild Wings new parent Inspire Brands debuts". Nation's Restaurant News. Archived from the original on October 6, 2020. Retrieved February 7, 2018.
  15. ^ "Buffalo Wild Wings, MGM partner on sports betting". ESPN. September 5, 2019. Archived from the original on October 23, 2020. Retrieved October 23, 2020.
  16. ^ Boone, Kyle (March 22, 2022). "March Madness: Saint Peter's star Doug Edert signs NIL deal with Buffalo Wild Wings, launches clothing line". CBSSports.com. Archived from the original on August 25, 2022. Retrieved August 25, 2022.
  17. ^ Jacksonville, A. Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant in; Fl. (June 28, 2023). "Buffalo Wild Wings ends its Canadian operations - BNN Bloomberg". BNN. Archived from the original on July 1, 2023. Retrieved July 1, 2023.
  18. ^ "The Blazin Challenge – Rules & Award | Buffalo Wild Wings". www.buffalowildwings.com. Archived from the original on July 12, 2023. Retrieved July 12, 2023.
  19. ^ "Profile:Buffalo Wild Wings Inc (BWLD.O)". Reuters. Archived from the original on November 4, 2016. Retrieved November 1, 2016.

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Buffalo Wild Wings.
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