Established
1982
Franchise Units
9
Minimum Investment
$750,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$1,500,000
Home Based
No
Description
Few restaurant brands capture the heart of Southern hospitality quite like This Is It! Bar-B-Q & Seafood. Known for its rich barbecue flavors, homestyle sides, and comforting seafood classics, the brand has become a staple in the Southern dining scene. Built on family recipes and authentic cooking traditions, this concept blends slow-smoked meats, golden fried seafood, and soulful sides into a dining experience that keeps customers coming back for generations.
Positioned in the thriving fast-casual and family dining segment, This Is It! Bar-B-Q & Seafood stands out by offering something deeper than just a meal—it delivers a cultural experience rooted in Southern heritage. With strong brand recognition in its home markets and a menu that appeals to a wide demographic, the franchise offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to step into a proven concept with loyal repeat customers and multi-daypart revenue potential.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
1. Established Brand with Strong Regional Loyalty
The brand has built decades of trust and recognition, particularly in the Southeastern United States.
2. High-Demand Cuisine Category
Barbecue, seafood, and soul food remain among the most popular restaurant categories in the U.S., with year-round demand.
3. Multiple Revenue Streams
Dine-in, catering, family meal bundles, online ordering, and third-party delivery partnerships create diversified income sources.
4. Scalable Operating Model
The concept can operate in freestanding locations, inline retail centers, or conversion spaces.
5. Community-Centered Brand Identity
The company has deep roots in community engagement, which strengthens customer loyalty and local brand presence.
Background
Established Year: 1982
Industry Category: Fast Casual / Southern BBQ & Seafood Restaurant
Franchise Active Units: 9
This Is It! Bar-B-Q & Seafood was founded in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1982 by entrepreneurial restaurateurs who wanted to share authentic Southern cooking with their community. Over the years, the brand expanded steadily, building a reputation for generous portions, family-friendly dining, and consistent quality.
From humble beginnings as a local barbecue establishment, the company evolved into a recognized regional restaurant chain. The founders focused on maintaining culinary authenticity while building operational systems that supported expansion. The brand’s growth has been driven by strong word-of-mouth marketing, repeat customers, and strategic site selection.
Support Training
Franchisees are supported from day one through a structured onboarding and operational support program.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and demographic analysis
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Lease negotiation assistance
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Restaurant design and layout planning
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Vendor and equipment sourcing
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Pre-opening marketing campaign strategy
Initial Training
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Comprehensive operational training at a corporate location
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Food preparation and quality control systems
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Inventory management and supply chain procedures
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Staff hiring and management training
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Customer service excellence training
Marketing & Branding Support
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Grand opening marketing campaigns
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Social media templates and promotional materials
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Local store marketing strategies
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Community outreach programs
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Brand-compliant advertising assets
Ongoing Support
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Field operations support
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Performance benchmarking and financial analysis
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Menu updates and seasonal promotions
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Technology systems and POS support
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Continued training modules and leadership development
Ideal Candidate
The ideal franchisee for This Is It! Bar-B-Q & Seafood is someone who:
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Has experience in restaurant management, hospitality, or multi-unit operations (preferred but not mandatory)
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Possesses strong leadership and team-building skills
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Is passionate about food, customer service, and community engagement
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Has the financial capability to invest in a full-service restaurant concept
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Is committed to hands-on involvement or can oversee an experienced management team
Multi-unit operators and experienced restaurateurs may find strong synergy with this brand due to its established menu systems and scalable operational model. Ideal territories include high-traffic suburban corridors, metro areas with strong family demographics, and communities with demand for authentic Southern cuisine.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $750,000 – $1,500,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | Approx. $750,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 6% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing/Ad Fund Contribution | 1% – 2% |
| Leasehold Improvements | $300,000 – $700,000 |
| Equipment & Kitchen Setup | $200,000 – $350,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Technology & POS Systems | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| Estimated Break-Even Timeline | 18 – 30 Months (Market Dependent) |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-In, Catering, Online Ordering, Delivery, Family Meal Packages |
