Food for Thought: Choosing Between a Chicken Wing or Sandwich

If you’re considering investing in the food industry, but are uncertain which franchise category to choose. In this article, we examine the realm of chicken wings and sandwiches in greater depth, delving into key factors to consider when selecting your ideal franchise.

According to the International Franchise Association, there are over 733,000 franchise establishments in the United States, which employ nearly 8 million people and generate over $800 billion in economic output each year. 

The food industry is one of the largest sectors of the franchise market, and within that sector, chicken wings and sandwiches are two of the most popular options.

The Appeal of Chicken Wings

One of the biggest advantages of investing in a chicken wings franchise is the popularity of the food itself. Wings have been a beloved American comfort food for decades, and they show no signs of losing their appeal anytime soon. 

In fact, according to recent research, Americans are expected to eat over 1.4 billion chicken wings during the 2023 Super Bowl weekend alone. 

The Cons

While the popularity of chicken wings is a definite advantage, there are also some potential downsides to investing in chicken wings. 

• There are already many established chicken wing chains out there, from Buffalo Wild Wings to Wingstop to Hooters. This means that new franchisees may face stiff competition and struggle to stand out from the crowd. 
• Chicken wings typically require a lot of kitchen space and specialized equipment, which can be expensive to purchase and maintain.

The Appeal of Sandwich Franchises

Sandwich franchise opportunities have their own set of advantages. 

For one thing, sandwiches are a staple food that can appeal to a wide variety of consumers – from office workers looking for a quick lunch to families in search of a casual dinner option. 

They also tend to be more versatile than wings, as they can offer a wider variety of menu options and catering services.

The Cons

• One potential disadvantage is the saturation of the market – there are already many established sandwich chains out there, from Arby’s to Jimmy John’s to Potbelly Sandwich Shop. This can make it difficult for new franchises to gain a foothold and build a loyal customer base. 
• You may require more marketing and advertising efforts than chicken wing franchises, as they need to differentiate themselves from competitors.

Investment Costs for Franchises

Depending on the franchise, you may be looking at a wide range of expenses, from initial franchise fees to equipment and inventory costs to ongoing royalties and marketing fees. 

It’s important to carefully research and compare the costs associated with each franchise opportunity before making a decision.

Training and Support for Franchisees

This can include everything from initial training programs to ongoing coaching and marketing support. Some franchises may provide more comprehensive support than others, so it’s important to find out what kind of resources you can expect as a franchise owner. 

Ideally, you’ll want to choose a franchise that offers extensive training and ongoing support to help you build a successful business.

Your Personal Interests and Skills

If you have a passion for cooking and experience in the kitchen, you may find that a chicken wing business is a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you have a background in marketing or sales and enjoy working with customers, a sandwich business may be the way to go. 

It’s important to choose a franchise that aligns with your own strengths and interests, as this will increase your chances of success.

Conclusion

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing between franchises to invest in. Both types can be highly profitable, but they also come with their own unique challenges and opportunities. Take the time to explore your options and find your perfect fit.