1988
30
$150,000
$30,000
$500,000
No
WingsUP! is one of Canada’s fastest-growing fast-casual restaurant franchises, specializing in premium-quality chicken wings, fresh-cut fries, and bold, flavor-packed meals. With a strong reputation for serving fresh, never frozen wings made to order and a diverse menu of sauces and sides, WingsUP! has carved a niche in the competitive Canadian food service industry. The brand has become a go-to destination for families, students, professionals, and sports fans seeking quick-service dining without compromising on quality.
Positioned within the booming QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) and casual dining sector, WingsUP! stands out as a profitable investment opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on Canada’s increasing demand for high-quality comfort food, takeout, and delivery services. With a proven operational model, strong brand recognition, and comprehensive franchisee support, WingsUP! offers the perfect balance of profitability, growth potential, and community-driven dining experiences.
Proven Business Model – WingsUP! has refined its fast-casual concept over decades, ensuring consistent profitability and operational efficiency.
Strong Brand Recognition – Known for delivering Canada’s most flavorful wings, the franchise has built a loyal customer base across multiple regions.
Growing Food Industry Demand – The QSR chicken segment in Canada continues to thrive, with wings being a staple in sports, entertainment, and casual dining.
Multiple Revenue Streams – Dine-in, takeout, third-party delivery, catering, and online ordering all contribute to strong profitability.
Scalable Operations – Ideal for both first-time entrepreneurs and multi-unit investors looking to expand their portfolio in the food sector.
Community Connection – WingsUP! franchises often serve as neighborhood hotspots, creating strong local engagement.
WingsUP! has been a household name in Ontario’s food scene for more than three decades. The brand was founded in 1988 by Frank Pennissi, who saw the opportunity to deliver restaurant-quality chicken wings in a quick-service format without sacrificing freshness or flavor. His vision of serving fresh, never frozen wings, hand-cut fries, and bold sauces quickly gained popularity, making WingsUP! one of Ontario’s favorite fast-casual wing restaurants.
The success of its flagship store and growing customer demand led to the launch of franchising in the early 2000s. Since then, WingsUP! has steadily expanded across Ontario and continues to seek opportunities in new Canadian markets. With 30+ franchise units already operating successfully, the brand has proven its ability to thrive in both urban centers and suburban communities.
1988: First WingsUP! restaurant opens in Ontario, Canada.
1990s: The menu expands with signature sauces, sides, and combo meals that become customer favorites.
Early 2000s: The company launches its franchise program, giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to own and operate a WingsUP! location.
2010s: Rapid growth in Ontario, driven by the rising demand for high-quality takeout and delivery services.
Today: WingsUP! operates 30+ units across Canada, with plans for nationwide expansion as Canadians increasingly choose fast-casual dining and comfort food.
WingsUP! is positioned in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) and fast-casual dining industry, one of the fastest-growing segments in Canada’s food and beverage market. The Canadian chicken QSR market has seen consistent growth, driven by strong consumer demand for wings, fried chicken, and flavor innovation. WingsUP! leverages this trend with its dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering services, ensuring multiple revenue streams for franchisees.
As a privately-owned Canadian franchise system, WingsUP! is managed by a leadership team with decades of restaurant industry experience. Its commitment to operational excellence, franchisee support, and customer satisfaction has built a strong reputation and loyal customer base.
WingsUP! is dedicated to equipping its franchisees with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed for long-term success.
Pre-Launch Support:
Assistance with site selection and lease negotiations
Store design, layout planning, and construction guidance
Supplier agreements and kitchen equipment setup
Comprehensive Training:
4–6 weeks of in-depth training covering food preparation, customer service, staff management, and POS systems
Marketing and digital ordering platform training
Hands-on experience in an operating franchise location
Operational Support:
Ongoing field visits and business reviews
Access to operational manuals and standard procedures
Inventory management and supplier coordination
Marketing Support:
National and local marketing campaigns
Social media and digital advertising support
Promotional materials and seasonal campaigns
Continuous Development:
Regular franchisee workshops and refresher training
Innovation in menu development to keep offerings fresh and competitive
WingsUP! seeks driven, business-minded entrepreneurs who share a passion for customer service and great food.
Background: Prior restaurant or retail experience is helpful but not mandatory. Training programs are designed to prepare first-time owners for success.
Investment Capability: Must meet financial requirements for franchise fees, build-out costs, and working capital.
Personality Traits: Strong leadership, customer service focus, team-building ability, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Passion: A love for food, community engagement, and creating memorable dining experiences.
Location Preference: High-traffic urban and suburban areas across Canada, especially near universities, sports venues, and residential hubs.
Total Investment Required: CAD $350,000 – $500,000
Minimum Investment Required: CAD $150,000 – $200,000 (liquid capital)
Franchise Fee: CAD $30,000 – $35,000
Infrastructure & Build-Out Costs: CAD $200,000 – $300,000 (depending on location size and design)
Marketing Budget: 2%–3% of gross sales (National & Local Marketing Fund contribution)
Working Capital: CAD $50,000 – $75,000 recommended
Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales
Franchise Units (Canada): 30+ and growing steadily
Expected ROI: Typically within 2–3 years
Break-even Point: Estimated 12–18 months depending on sales volume
Revenue Streams: Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, and online ordering platforms
