East Coast Wings + Grill Poised for Remarkable Growth in 2025, Defies Industry Odds with Record-Setting 2024 Performance
- Family-friendly Wing Franchise on the Rise with Positive Same-Store-Sales Increase and Growing AUV
- Commitment to Innovation, Responsible Franchising, and Unparalleled Guest Experiences Drive Results
- 2025 Poised to be Banner Year, Welcoming New Franchisees Amid Strategic Franchise Expansion
Winston-Salem, NC (RestaurantNews.com) East Coast Wings + Grill (ECW+G), a full service, family dining franchise that is the ultimate casual dining spot for wing lovers, emerged as a beacon of success amid the industry’s challenging year. With a positive same-store sales (SSS) increase, rising average unit volumes (AUV), and a strategy rooted in responsible franchising, ECW+G is strengthening its franchise foundation and laying the groundwork for an even more transformative 2025.
Laying a Resilient Foundation
Under the leadership of CEO and Founder Sam Ballas, ECW+G maintained a deliberate approach to growth, addressing post-pandemic challenges while prioritizing franchisee success. By strategically delaying new openings and aligning construction with market normalization, the brand reinforced its commitment to unit-level economics and sustainable growth.
“Being a lifestyle brand by design has proven to be a smart way to franchise, allowing us to prioritize sustainable growth and profitability for our partners,” said Ballas. “This approach yielded impressive results in 2024, with over 40% of locations achieving record sales.”
Strategic Expansion and Partnerships
Looking ahead, ECW+G has partnered with Dine Growth Group, led by Chief Development Officer Carrie Evans, to refine its franchise development strategy and meet the growing demand from prospective franchisees. This collaboration enhances the brand’s ability to expand in key markets while maintaining its focus on franchisee success.
“Our deliberate strategy ensures trust and profitability for our franchisees while delivering bold flavors and memorable dining experiences for guests,” added Ballas.
Culinary Innovation and Guest Loyalty
The addition of Ashley Mitchell as Vice President of Marketing in 2024 brought fresh energy to ECW+G’s culinary and marketing strategies. Mitchell’s experience with globally recognized brands has driven initiatives focused on menu innovation, limited-time offerings (LTOs), and guest engagement.
“Dining is no longer just about the food – it’s about the experience,” said Mitchell. “We’re redefining casual dining with flavors and an atmosphere that feels like home.”
From unique flavor profiles to creative LTOs, Mitchell’s vision is helping fuel brand awareness, guest loyalty, and bottom-line results, setting the stage for continued growth in 2025.
Commitment to Responsible Franchising
ECW+G’s success is rooted in a franchising model focused on franchisee profitability. In 2024, the brand enhanced support for its franchisees by adding even more day-to-day support from their National Franchise Support Center.
Further underscoring its commitment, ECW+G pledged $100,000 to the International Franchise Association’s Franchisee Ascension Initiative, a program aimed at supporting underrepresented and economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs in achieving franchise ownership.
Poised for Growth in 2025
As the brand enters 2025, ECW+G is primed for a year of robust expansion. Plans include new openings in strategic markets, enhanced guest experiences, and bold menu innovations that reflect evolving consumer tastes.
With its perfect blend of innovation, responsibility, and heart, East Coast Wings + Grill is not just defying industry odds – it’s setting a new standard for what a full-service dining franchise can achieve.
ECW+G’s achievements are validated with prestigious awards, including a coveted spot on the Franchise Times Top 400 and multiple recognitions from Franchise Business Review, including being named as one of the Most Profitable Franchises, Top Franchises, Top Food Franchises, Most Innovative Franchises, and recognition as a Franchise Rockstar. These accolades underscore the brand’s exceptional value and growth potential for franchisees.
For more information about East Coast Wings + Grill franchising opportunities, visit EastCoastWingsFranchise.com.
About East Coast Wings + Grill
East Coast Wings + Grill is a full-service, family-dining franchise that spotlights Buffalo wings. The thoughtfully-crafted menu also offers a variety of other options to satisfy every family member’s taste buds. With more than 50 nationwide locations open or in development, the franchise has secured a spot on the Entrepreneur and the Franchise Business Review’s 2024 Top Food Franchise, Most Innovative Franchise, Most Profitable Franchise, Franchise Rock Star, and Top Franchise lists. The concept has also been named to the Franchise Business Review Hall of Fame for the past decade due to outstanding franchisee support and overall franchisee satisfaction. Additionally, East Coast Wings + Grill was also ranked on Franchise Times Top Franchise list. East Coast Wings + Grill is a member of the IFA, with CEO and Founder, Sam Ballas, serving as the second vice chair of the association. For more information about East Coast Wings + Grill or its franchise opportunities, visit EastCoastWingsFranchise.com.
Media Contact:
Maeve Devitt
Fishman PR
mdevitt@fishmanpr.com
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