A chicken wing restaurant business, often simply called a “wing restaurant”, is an establishment that specializes in serving chicken wings as a primary menu item.
These restaurants are popular for their casual and often sports-bar-like atmosphere, and they typically offer a variety of chicken wing flavors and sauces to cater to a wide range of tastes.
Chicken wing restaurants have gained popularity due to their focus on a specific food item, allowing them to perfect their recipes and offer a wide array of flavors.
They cater to people who enjoy the combination of crispy, flavorful chicken wings with a relaxed and often sports-oriented dining experience.
Steps on How to Write a Chicken Wing Restaurant Business Plan
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Executive Summary
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. is an exciting new venture that aims to become the go-to destination for chicken wing enthusiasts in Rochester, New York.
With a commitment to exceptional quality, a diverse range of flavors, and a unique dining experience, we are poised to make a significant impact in the highly competitive food service industry.
Rochester, New York, is a vibrant and diverse city with a strong food culture. The demand for high-quality, diverse food options, particularly in the casual dining sector, presents a significant market opportunity.
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. is well-positioned to capture a substantial share of this market by offering unique flavors and a memorable dining experience.
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. is poised to become the premier chicken wing destination in Rochester, New York.
With a focus on quality, flavor diversity, and customer satisfaction, we are confident in our ability to carve out a niche in the competitive food industry.
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Company Profile
a. Our Products and Services
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will be a family-friendly, casual dining establishment that specializes in serving delectable chicken wings in various flavors and styles.
Our menu will also feature complimentary items, such as chicken tenders, a variety of dipping sauces, hand-cut fries, and crisp salads.
Located in the heart of Rochester, our restaurant will offer a comfortable, sports bar atmosphere with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction.
b. Nature of the Business
The nature of a chicken wing restaurant business is shaped by its focus on chicken wings and its ability to cater to a diverse customer base through a combination of flavors, an inviting atmosphere, and community involvement. It often thrives in environments where people are looking for a casual and enjoyable dining experience.
c. The Industry
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will operate in the fine dining cum restaurant services industry.
d. Mission Statement
“At Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, our mission is to create a haven for chicken wing enthusiasts in Rochester, New York, and beyond.
We are dedicated to delivering an exceptional dining experience by offering the highest quality, flavorful chicken wings in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
With a commitment to diversity, customer satisfaction, and community engagement, we aim to be the go-to destination for those who crave the perfect wing.”
e. Vision Statement
Our vision at Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant is to become the leading chicken wing destination in the Rochester area, recognized for our innovative flavors and unwavering dedication to customer happiness. We aspire to continually expand our presence while maintaining our reputation for quality and community involvement.
f. Our Tagline (Slogan)
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. – “Where Flavor Takes Flight!”
g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will be formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
h. Our Organizational Structure
- Chief Chef (Owner)
- Restaurant Manager
- Human Resources and Amin Manager
- Accountants (Cashiers)
- Chef (Cooks)
- Kitchen Assistants
- Waiters and Waitress
- Cleaners
i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members
- Lewis Richard (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 52 Percent Shares
- Pep George (Board Member) 18 Percent Shares
- Lilian Richard (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
- Bob Silas (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
- Charis Martins (Board Member and Secretary) 10 Percent Shares.
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SWOT Analysis
a. Strength
- Lewis Richard® offers a wide range of innovative and unique wing flavors, setting it apart from competitors and appealing to diverse tastes.
- The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality chicken and premium sauces, ensuring a consistent and delicious product.
- A commitment to excellent customer service, a welcoming atmosphere, and the option for customer customization contribute to a loyal customer base.
- Active involvement in the local community enhances brand recognition and strengthens customer relationships.
- A relaxed, family-friendly, and sports-bar-like ambiance provides a comfortable and inviting dining environment.
b. Weakness
- Starting and operating a restaurant can be capital-intensive, including expenses for leasehold improvements, equipment, and marketing.
- The chicken wing restaurant industry in Rochester is highly competitive, with numerous established and new players.
- Recruiting and retaining qualified kitchen and waitstaff can be a challenge in the restaurant business.
- Fluctuations in the prices of chicken and ingredients can impact profitability.
c. Opportunities
- Expanding to new locations within and beyond Rochester to reach a broader customer base and increase market share.
- Offering catering services for events, parties, and local gatherings can generate additional revenue.
- Embracing digital platforms for online ordering and delivery can tap into the growing demand for convenient dining options.
- Leveraging holidays, sports events, and special promotions to boost sales during peak times.
i. How Big is the Industry?
In the United States, the restaurant industry as a whole is significant, with estimated annual sales surpassing $800 billion.
While there is no specific data on the size of the chicken wing restaurant industry within this broader context, it is considered a niche segment within the restaurant industry.
ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?
The growth of the chicken wing restaurant industry can be attributed to several factors, including increased consumer interest in international cuisines, the rise of food tourism, and the desire for unique dining experiences.
iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry?
The chicken wing restaurant industry is subject to evolving consumer preferences, culinary trends, and market dynamics.
As health-conscious dining becomes more prevalent, chicken wing restaurants may need to offer healthier alternatives, such as grilled wings, baked options, or plant-based wing substitutes to cater to a broader customer base.
The trend of offering diverse and globally inspired wing flavors is expected to continue. Restaurants may explore fusion cuisine, regional specialties, and unique spice blends to keep menus exciting. Consumer demand for personalized dining experiences is growing.
Restaurants that allow customers to create their own wing flavor combinations or choose their preferred spice levels can attract and retain more patrons.
There is an increasing emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing in the food industry. Chicken wing restaurants may opt for responsibly raised poultry and environmentally friendly practices to meet the demands of eco-conscious consumers.
The popularity of online ordering and food delivery services is expected to persist, requiring chicken wing restaurants to have user-friendly websites, mobile apps, and efficient delivery systems.
While casual dining remains a hallmark of chicken wing restaurants, some establishments may elevate their offerings by incorporating gourmet touches, such as premium ingredients, artisanal sauces, and craft beer pairings.
To compete in a crowded market, chicken wing restaurants will increasingly rely on digital marketing, social media engagement, and loyalty programs to build customer loyalty and drive repeat business.
iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?
No, there are no existing niche ideas when it comes to the chicken wing restaurant line business because the business is a niche restaurant business and a subset of the restaurant industry.
v. Can You Sell a Franchise of Your Business in the Future?
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. has plans to sell franchises in the near future and we will target major cities with thriving niche restaurant markets in the United States of America.
d. Threats
- Economic downturns can impact consumer spending and dining out habits.
- Stringent food safety and health regulations must be adhered to, which can be a challenge for new or smaller restaurants.
- Intensified competition, including the entry of new players, can pose a threat to market share.
- Disruptions in the supply chain, such as chicken shortages or interruptions in sauce deliveries, can affect operations.
- Evolving dietary preferences, health-conscious choices, or shifts in consumer eating habits can impact the demand for certain menu items.
i. Who are the Major Competitors?
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Wingstop
- Hooters
- Pluckers Wing Bar
- Quaker Steak & Lube
- The Wing Factory
- Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
- Wild Wing Cafe
- B-Dubs Express
- East Coast Wings + Grill
- Wing Zone
- Hurricane Grill & Wings
- Roosters
- Atomic Wings
- Native Grill & Wings
- WingHouse Bar & Grill
- Bonchon Chicken
- Duff’s Famous Wings
- WingStreet
- Jefferson’s Restaurant.
ii. Is There a Franchise for the Chicken Wing Restaurant Business?
Yes, there are franchise opportunities for the chicken wing restaurant business, and here are some of them;
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Wingstop
- Hooters
- WingStreet
- Wing Zone
- Hurricane Grill & Wings
- Quaker Steak & Lube
- East Coast Wings + Grill
- Native Grill & Wings
- Pluckers Wing Bar.
iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting Chicken Wing Restaurants?
Yes, there are policies, regulations, and zoning laws that can affect chicken wing restaurant businesses in the United States.
Chicken wing restaurants must comply with local, state, and federal food safety regulations to ensure proper handling, preparation, and storage of food.
This may involve obtaining food handler certifications, regular inspections, and adherence to guidelines such as the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
Chicken wing restaurants need to follow health codes and regulations related to cleanliness, sanitation, and food handling practices. This includes maintaining a hygienic environment, proper food storage, and safe preparation methods.
Local regulations may govern the size, placement, and design of signage and advertising for chicken wing restaurants. Compliance with these regulations ensures that signage does not obstruct public view, adheres to aesthetic guidelines, and respects community standards.
If a chicken wing restaurant plans to serve alcoholic beverages, additional regulations and permits may apply. These can include obtaining liquor licenses, complying with age restrictions, and adhering to regulations related to sales, serving hours, and responsible alcohol service practices.
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Marketing Plan
a. Who is your Target Audience?
i. Age Range: Our target audience can range from young adults to middle-aged individuals. Generally, it may include people between the ages of 18 and 45, as they are more likely to appreciate the culinary experience and have disposable income for dining out.
ii. Level of Education: The level of education may vary, but typically our target audience includes individuals with a high school diploma or higher education levels, including college graduates and professionals.
iii. Income Level: Our target audience will consist of individuals with moderate to higher income levels, as they are more likely to have the financial means to dine out regularly.
iv. Ethnicity: Our target audience is not limited to a specific ethnicity. Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant aims to attract a diverse customer base, appealing to individuals from various ethnic backgrounds.
v. Language: The primary language of communication and menu items at Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant would be English.
vi. Geographical Location: The target audience for Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant is primarily centered in Rochester, New York, as specified in the original context.
Our restaurant would aim to attract both local residents and visitors to the area, including tourists, students, and professionals in the Rochester community.
vii. Lifestyle: Our target audience will include individuals who appreciate unique dining experiences, enjoy exploring different cuisines, and seek a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies
- Deliberately Brand All Our Vans and Trucks.
- Tap Into Text Marketing.
- Make Use of Billboards.
- Share Your Events in Local Groups and Pages.
- Turn Your Social Media Channels into a Resource
- Develop Your Business Directory Profiles
- Build Relationships with players in the culinary cum food services industry.
i. Traditional Marketing Strategies
- Marketing through Direct Mail.
- Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
- Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
- OOH Marketing – Public Transit like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
- Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), tradeshows, print advertising (magazines, newspapers, coupon books, billboards), referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing), radio, and television.
ii. Digital Marketing Strategies
- Social Media Marketing Platforms.
- Influencer Marketing.
- Email Marketing.
- Content Marketing.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.
- Affiliate Marketing
- Mobile Marketing.
iii. Social Media Marketing Plan
- Start using chatbots.
- Create a personalized experience for our customers.
- Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
- Create a community for our target market and potential target market.
- Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
- Use brand advocates.
- Create profiles on the relevant social media channels.
- Run cross-channel campaigns.
c. Pricing Strategy
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will adopt the following pricing strategies:
- Cost-Plus Pricing
- Value-Based Pricing
- Competitive Pricing
- Dynamic Pricing
- Bundle Pricing
Please note that our pricing strategy is based on a careful analysis of the costs and profitability of the business, as well as the needs and preferences of the target customer base.
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Sales and Distribution Plan
a. Sales Channels
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. offers catering services and this will allow us to serve large groups or events such as corporate functions, weddings, and parties.
Collaborating with other businesses or participating in pop-up events and food festivals will expose Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. to a wider audience and attract new customers. These collaborations will include joint promotions, limited-time menu items, or special events.
b. Inventory Strategy
We will Implement a Just-in-Time (JIT) Approach to inventory management, where we will maintain a lean inventory and order ingredients based on immediate or forecasted demand. This will help us minimize food waste, optimize freshness, and reduce storage costs.
We will establish a stock rotation system to ensure that older ingredients are used first to prevent spoilage. We will implement the “first in, first out” (FIFO) method to manage perishable items effectively.
c. Payment Options for Customers
- Bank Transfers
- Credit or Debit Card
- Cash
- Checks
- Dine-In and Tableside Payments
- Contactless Ordering and Payment Apps
- Gift Card
- Electronic Payment Systems such as PayPal or Venmo.
d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees
Return Policy:
At Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc., we strive to provide the highest quality products and exceptional customer service. If a customer is not satisfied with their order, we have a customer-friendly return policy in place.
Incentives:
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. believes in rewarding our valued customers for their loyalty and support.
We offer various incentives to enhance the customer experience and encourage repeat visits. We have a loyalty program in place that rewards customers for their frequent visits and purchases.
Through this program, customers can accumulate points for every purchase and redeem them for discounts, free items, or exclusive offers.
Guarantees:
At Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc., we are committed to delivering a high-quality dining experience to our customers.
While chicken wings are freshly prepared to order, we provide certain guarantees to ensure customer satisfaction. We guarantee that our chicken wings are made with fresh ingredients and prepared in order to ensure optimal flavor and quality.
e. Customer Support Strategy
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc.’s comprehensive customer support strategy is put in place so that we can provide exceptional service and ensure customer satisfaction.
We will establish clear communication channels, such as phone lines, email, and social media platforms, to facilitate quick and responsive interactions with customers.
We will respond to customer inquiries, feedback, and complaints in a timely manner, demonstrating attentiveness and a commitment to addressing their needs.
We will implement a customer relationship management system to track customer interactions, preferences, and history.
This allows staff members to provide personalized service, anticipate customer needs, and tailor experiences based on individual preferences.
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Operational Plan
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for various aspects of restaurant operations, including food preparation, food safety, customer service, and cleanliness.
We will implement efficient workflow processes in the kitchen to ensure the timely preparation and plating of chicken wings.
We will establish protocols for inventory management, including regular stock monitoring, ordering, and rotation to minimize waste and ensure the availability of ingredients. We will regularly evaluate operational performance and customer feedback to identify areas for improvement.
We seek opportunities to innovate and introduce new menu items, promotions, or dining experiences to keep customers engaged and attract new ones.
a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Chicken Wing Restaurant Business?
A typical day at a chicken wing restaurant business is a well-orchestrated sequence of tasks. It begins with staff preparations, ensuring the kitchen and dining area are clean and fully stocked.
The chef preps ingredients, while servers set tables and greet customers. As orders flow in, the kitchen staff cooks wings to perfection, following specific recipes and flavor profiles. Simultaneously, servers take customer orders and deliver drinks and appetizers.
Once the wings are ready, they’re tossed in chosen sauces, garnished, and served piping hot. Throughout the day, the staff continuously maintains cleanliness, addresses customer requests, and ensures a smooth flow of service.
Takeout and delivery orders are also processed, and payment transactions are handled efficiently. In the evening, the focus may shift to creating a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal place for social gatherings or watching sports events.
Overall, a day at a chicken wing restaurant revolves around delivering high-quality wings, excellent customer service, and maintaining a welcoming dining environment.
b. Production Process
In a chicken wing restaurant, preparing chicken wings involves several steps. First, the wings are sourced fresh, and any excess fat or feathers are removed.
They are then seasoned with a mixture of spices and sauces, with flavors ranging from classic buffalo to a wide variety of options.
The wings may be marinated to enhance flavor. Cooking methods often include deep-frying, baking, or grilling, depending on the restaurant’s recipe.
Once cooked to perfection, the wings are typically tossed in the chosen sauce or seasoning. They are then served hot, garnished with optional toppings, and accompanied by dipping sauces.
The goal is to provide customers with crispy, flavorful chicken wings that meet their preferred heat level and taste, resulting in a satisfying dining experience.
c. Service Procedure
Service procedures for chicken wing restaurants involve several key steps to ensure a seamless dining experience. Customers are typically greeted, seated, and presented with menus.
They place their orders with the server or through an app, and kitchen staff prepare the wings and sides. The server delivers the food, checks for satisfaction, and refills drinks.
Once the meal is finished, the server presents the bill, and the customer pays using various payment options. Hygiene and cleanliness are maintained throughout, and staff are attentive to customers’ needs.
Additionally, some restaurants offer takeout and delivery services, which require efficient order processing, packaging, and timely delivery to maintain customer satisfaction and loyalty.
d. The Supply Chain
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will build strong relationships with reliable suppliers who can provide high-quality ingredients consistently.
Negotiate favorable terms and agreements to ensure a steady supply of fresh ingredients while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
e. Sources of Income
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. revenue streams will include dine-in sales, takeout orders, private events, and partnerships with local businesses for corporate catering.
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Financial Plan
a. Amount Needed to Start your Chicken Wing Restaurant?
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. would need an estimate of $350,000 to successfully set up our chicken wing restaurant in the United States of America. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all our staff for the first month of operation.
b. What are the Costs Involved?
- Business Registration Fees – $750.
- Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $2,300.
- Marketing, Branding, and Promotions – $2,000.
- Business Consultant Fee – $3,500.
- Insurance – $3,400.
- Rent/Lease – $125,000.
- Other start-up expenses including commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($1,800).
- Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
- Start-up Inventory – $25,000
- Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $2,750
- Furnishing and Equipping the Restaurant and Kitchen – $100,000
- Website: $600
- Opening party: $3,000
- Miscellaneous: $2,000
c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much will it cost?
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will not build a new facility for our chicken wing restaurant; we intend to start with a long-term lease and after 5 years, we will start the process of acquiring our own facility.
d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Chicken Wing Restaurant?
- Rent or Lease
- Monthly expenses for utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet services.
- Ingredients and Food Supplies: The cost of purchasing fresh ingredients, including chicken wings, flour, eggs, fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and other food supplies needed for chicken wings, and other delicacy preparation.
- Expenses related to packaging materials, such as takeout containers, bags, napkins, utensils, and other disposable items.
- Staff Wages
- Costs associated with purchasing, maintaining, and repairing cooking equipment, griddles, refrigeration units, and other kitchen appliances.
- Marketing and Advertising
- Point of Sale (POS) System and Software
- Accounting and Bookkeeping
- Cleaning and Maintenance
- Miscellaneous Expenses.
e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?
- Chief Chef (Owner) – $65,000 Per Year
- Restaurant Manager – $40,000 Per Year
- Human Resources and Admin Manager $38,600 Per Year
- Accountants (Cashiers) $37,000 Per Year
- Chef (Cooks) – $40,600 Per Year
- Kitchen Assistants – $30,700 Per Year
- Waiters and Waitress – $30,000 Per Year
- Cleaners -$28,500 Per Year
f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Chicken Wing Restaurant?
- Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
- Raising money from investors and business partners
- Sell shares to interested investors
- Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
- Pitching your business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from the government, donor organizations, and angel investors
- Source for soft loans from your family members and your friends.
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Financial Projection
a. How Much Should You Charge for your Product/Service?
In our restaurant, a standard serving of traditional chicken wings typically ranges from $0.75 to $1.50 per wing. Boneless wings may be priced similarly.
Specialty or unique flavors might be slightly more expensive. Additionally, we will offer special promotions, like “all-you-can-eat” wing nights, happy hour deals, or combo meals, which can affect the overall price.
b. Sales Forecast?
- First Fiscal Year (FY1): $350,000
- Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $430,000
- Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $500,000
c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?
- First Fiscal Year (FY1) (Profit After Tax): 15%
- Second Fiscal Year (FY2) (Profit After Tax): 25%
- Third Fiscal Year (FY3) (Profit After Tax): 25%
d. Profit Margin of a Chicken Wing Restaurant Product/Service
The ideal profit margin we hope to make at Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will be between 15 and 25 percent depending on the size.
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Growth Plan
a. How do you intend to grow and expand? By opening more retail outlets/offices or selling a franchise?
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. will grow our chicken wing restaurant by first opening other restaurant outlets in key cities in the United States of America within the first five years of establishing the business and then will start selling franchises from the sixth year.
b. Where do you intend to expand to and why?
Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. plans to expand to:
- New York City, New York
- San Francisco, California
- Miami, Florida
- Detroit, Michigan
- New Haven, Connecticut
- Seattle, Washington
- Portland, Oregon
- Los Angeles, California
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The reason we intend to expand to these locations is the fact that available statistics show that the cities listed above have the highest market for niche restaurants such as chicken wing restaurants in the United States.
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Exit Plan
The founder of Lewis Richard® Chicken Wing Restaurant, Inc. plans to exit the business via family succession. We have positioned structures and processes in place that will help us achieve our plan of successfully transferring the business from one family member to another and from one generation to another without difficulties.
The company has successfully developed a detailed transition plan to smoothly hand over responsibilities to the new successor.
This includes transferring ownership, training key personnel, and communicating with employees, customers, and suppliers about the change.