Hooters Eyeing Bismarck Return

Hooter's in 2009

Hooters, as reported by the Bismarck Tribune, is eyeing a possible franchise partner for a Bismarck return. The Bismarck Hooters location shuttered in 2014 after its franchise holder opted not to renew the rights. The location opened in 2008.

The move is somewhat surprising considering that the Bismarck location’s parking lot crowd often dwarfed its Applebee’s neighbor.

Fargo-based Sickie’s Garage immediately occupied the former Hooter’s building after its closure.

Interested in acquiring the franchise rights? It’s $75,000 franchise fee and 5% royalties is relatively higher compared to other chain restaurants (by comparison, Applebee’s is only $35,000/4%). Other franchise requirements include:

  • An immediate population of at least 100,000 people, with a daytime population of 15,000 people and strong nighttime activity within 1 mile
  • Median population income of $50,000
  • Traffic flow of at least 30,000 vehicles per day, with supreme visibility
  • Net worth of at least $2.5 million and liquidity of $1.5 million
  • Minimum 5 years of multi-unit restaurant management experience