Established
2017
Franchise Units
45
Minimum Investment
$365,200
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$640,500
Home Based
No
Description
In a world of "cookie-cutter" fast food, Wing Snob has emerged as the premier destination for the true wing connoisseur. This isn't just another chicken joint; it’s a high-intensity, fast-casual brand that has mastered the art of the "made-to-order" experience. By focusing on fresh, hormone-free chicken and a massive variety of signature sauces and dry rubs, Wing Snob has successfully carved out a unique niche in the competitive North American poultry industry.
What sets Wing Snob apart is an unapologetic commitment to quality—hence the name. While many competitors rely on frozen products and automated fryers, Wing Snob prioritizes a culinary-first approach. Their menu is a vibrant mix of traditional and boneless wings, chicken tenders, and even plant-based "Cauli-wings," ensuring every guest finds their perfect flavor profile. For an investor, Wing Snob represents a modern brand that resonates deeply with Gen Z and Millennial demographics, offering a scalable business model that is as efficient as it is popular
Why Invest in a Wing Snob Franchise?
Investing in Wing Snob is more than just opening a restaurant; it’s joining a brand built for the digital age. Here is why entrepreneurs are choosing this concept:
Explosive Market Demand: Chicken wings remain one of the most resilient food categories in the USA, thriving in both dine-in and delivery-heavy landscapes.
Simplified Operations: The menu is intentionally streamlined. This focus reduces food waste, simplifies staff training, and allows for smaller, more efficient kitchen footprints.
Multiple Revenue Streams: Beyond traditional dine-in, Wing Snob is a powerhouse in third-party delivery, carry-out, and catering opportunities.
High Growth Momentum: With a growth rate exceeding 50% year-over-year, the brand is rapidly expanding across the U.S. and Canada, providing early-market advantages for new partners.
Background
Founded Year: 2017
Established Location: Livonia, Michigan
Founders: Brian Shunia and Jack Mashini
Active Units: Over 45 locations
Brand Journey: What started as a single location in a Detroit suburb has rapidly transformed into a national contender. The founders combined their deep roots in the restaurant industry to create a brand that bridges the gap between high-end quality and quick-service speed. Today, the brand is recognized as one of the fastest-growing wing concepts in the country, maintaining a reputation for bold flavors and "snobby" standards.
Support Training
Wing Snob takes a hands-on approach to partner success through a dedicated corporate support structure.
Pre-Launch Support: The corporate team assists with site selection and provides lease negotiation guidance to ensure your location has maximum visibility.
Comprehensive Training: Franchisees undergo an intensive multi-week training program covering everything from proprietary sauce formulations to tech-stack management and inventory control.
Marketing & Grand Opening: You aren't left to find customers on your own. Wing Snob provides a detailed grand opening playbook and ongoing national media support to drive foot traffic from day one.
Ongoing Operational Support: Field operations teams perform regular site visits and quality control checks. You also gain access to a proprietary Learning Management System to keep your staff updated on brand standards.
Ideal Candidate
Wing Snob is looking for "Snobs"—people who are passionate about the product and the brand's culture.
Experience: Prior QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) or fast-casual management experience is highly valued.
Growth Mindset: The brand prioritizes multi-unit operators looking to scale within their local market.
Financial Capability: Applicants should have a minimum net worth of $600,000 and liquid capital of at least $150,000.
Passion & Commitment: The ideal candidate is an owner-operator or a partner with a dedicated, hands-on manager who understands the importance of local store marketing.
Location Preference: High-traffic retail centers, end-caps with patio space, or busy suburban corridors with a strong delivery radius.
Financial Detail
| Category | Estimated Cost / Detail |
| Total Initial Investment | $365,200 – $640,500 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of weekly gross sales |
| Marketing Fund Fee | 1% – 3% |
| Infrastructure/Build-out | $150,000 – $300,000 (Leasehold Improvements) |
| Working Capital | $10,000 – $15,000 (Initial phase) |
| Average Unit Volume (AUV) | Competitive with top-tier national wing brands |
| Expected ROI / Break-even | Typically 5–7 years (varies by market and management) |
