NFL Star Raheem Brock Tackles Restaurant Business; Opens First Wingstop in Philadelphia
Hometown Hero Opens First Location Across From Alma Mater, Temple University
PHILADELPHIA – Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle and former Temple University star Raheem Brock has opened Philadelphia’s first Wingstop restaurant and celebrated with a Grand Opening party last weekend at the new location, directly across from his alma mater.
Wingstop [www.wingstop.com] is the national chicken wing chain that has sold over 1.5 billion wings. Brock’s Wingstop will feature NFL and Temple University memorabilia, and the former graduate plans to open two more Wingstop restaurants in the Philadelphia area.
“I’m very thankful to everyone who came out to support my first business venture in my hometown,” said Brock. “Investing in my community and helping create jobs is a dream come true. I look forward to bringing other Wingstop locations to the area and to the continuation of local programs and events through the Raheem Brock Foundation and Brock’s Kids.”
Hundreds of Temple University students attended the grand opening, which included a ribbon cutting event and live radio broadcast. Pro Bowl NFL player Marques Colston of the New Orleans Saints was also in attendance.
The Philadelphia opening coincides with Wingstop’s plan to focus its expansion efforts on the Northeast and continue to spread its award-winning wings into New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Ohio, Connecticut and New York. The company plans to open as many as 75 restaurants in the Northeast over the next five years.
Dallas-based Wingstop was founded in 1994 and began franchising in 1997. Today Wingstop has more than 650 locations open or under development nationwide. At a time when many chains are struggling, Wingstop has experienced positive comp stores sales for 22 consecutive quarters, and the company recently moved from #125 to #97 on Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Franchise 500” ranking of all leading franchise brands worldwide.
About Wingstop
Wingstop offers restaurants with a nostalgic, aviation-themed atmosphere where the sole focus is on chicken wings. Wingstop features nine wing flavors, including Original Hot, Cajun, Atomic, Mild, Teriyaki, Lemon Pepper, Hawaiian, Garlic Parmesan, and Hickory Smoked BBQ. The wings are cooked-to-order and customers can also choose from homemade side dishes including fresh-cut seasoned fries, bourbon baked beans, pearl potato salad, creamy cole slaw, vegetable sticks, rolls and assorted dipping sauces. Wingstop recently received an American Business Award for Best Overall Company and was chosen Wing King at the 2006 National Buffalo Wing Festival. Troy Aikman, three-time Super Bowl champion and Hall of Fame quarterback, has served as the chain’s national spokesman since 2003.
Franchise Information
Wingstop franchise and franchise event information is available at www.wingstopfranchise.com or by contacting the franchise department at (972) 686-6500 or areadevelopment@wingstop.com.
###