East Coast Wings + Grill Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
East Coast Wings + Grill was established in 1995 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, starting out as a small neighborhood sports bar before transforming into a full-service restaurant known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
The company entered the franchising space in 2004 under the leadership of its founder and CEO, Sam Ballas. From its headquarters in Winston-Salem, the brand has steadily grown and now operates more than 60 restaurants across the country.
While the chain is best known for its buffalo wings, the menu is extensive, offering guests over 60 flavors and seven levels of heat. With more than 420 possible wing combinations, along with burgers, sandwiches, salads, tacos, and appetizers, East Coast Wings + Grill appeals to a wide range of diners.
What distinguishes the franchise is its focus on “Driven by Unit Level Economics®,” a guiding principle designed to prioritize franchisee profitability and operational excellence, setting it apart from many other restaurant concepts.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a East Coast Wings + Grill franchise? It costs on average between $408,000 – $1,233,000 to start a East Coast Wings + Grill franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as restaurant build-out, kitchen equipment, furnishings, opening inventory, and early operating costs. The total required amount can vary based on several factors, including the size and design of the restaurant, the market and location selected, and whether the property is leased or purchased by the franchisee.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $40,000 |
| Inventory | $9,000 – $23,020 |
| Pre-Opening Inventory Package | $750 – $1,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $174,768 – $700,000 |
| Lease-Related Payments – 3 Months | $7,000 – $12,500 |
| Architecture/Project Management | $0 – $19,875 |
| Professional Fees | $0 – $10,000 |
| Signage | $5,500 – $23,000 |
| Furniture and Fixtures | $17,200 – $45,000 |
| Equipment & Smallwares | $100,000 – $233,000 |
| Artwork & Décor | $4,500 – $10,000 |
| POS Computer System | $4,500 – $7,500 |
| Video Surveillance / Audio-Visual / Music & Entertainment System | $2,450 – $29,000 |
| Deposits | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Technology Fee | $1,200 – $2,400 |
| Expenses Associated with Initial Training | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| Fund Contribution — 3 Months | $2,450 – $12,000 |
| Initial Marketing Expense | $7,500 – $10,000 |
| Government Permits | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Additional Funds — 3 Months | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Royalty – 3 Months | $14,550 – $14,550 |
| Total | $408,368 – $1,232,845 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a East Coast Wings + Grill franchise? A East Coast Wings + Grill franchised restaurant makes on average $1,802,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many East Coast Wings + Grill locations are there?
As of the latest data, East Coast Wings + Grill operates 34 locations across the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a East Coast Wings + Grill franchise?
The total investment required to open a East Coast Wings + Grill franchise ranges from $408,000 to $1,233,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a East Coast Wings + Grill franchise?
Franchisees of East Coast Wings + Grill are required to pay a royalty fee is 6% of gross sales, paid on a regular basis to the franchisor. In addition, franchisees contribute 3% of gross sales to the brand’s advertising and marketing fund, which supports national and regional campaigns.
What are the financial requirements to become a East Coast Wings + Grill franchisee?
To qualify as a franchisee with East Coast Wings + Grill, candidates must meet certain financial requirements. The franchisor requires a minimum net worth of $750,000 and liquid capital of at least $300,000.
How much can a East Coast Wings + Grill franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a East Coast Wings + Grill franchise are approximately $1.8 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $1.8 million yearly revenue can result in $270,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns East Coast Wings + Grill?
The East Coast Wings + Grill franchise is owned by East Coast Wings Corporation, a private company.
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