Hooters

Hooters is a restaurant chain operating and franchising over 400 locations in the U.S. and 27 other countries. The company was incorporated on April 1, 1983, by six businessmen with no prior restaurant experience: Lynn D. Stewart, Gil DiGiannantonio, Ed Droste, Billy Ranieri, Ken Wimmer, and Dennis Johnson. The first restaurant opened in Clearwater, Florida, on October 4, 1983, in a location where numerous previous businesses had failed. The founders' initial expectations were so low that they incorporated on April Fools' Day, believing the venture would fail.

The business model centers on a casual, beach-themed atmosphere with a menu that includes hamburgers, sandwiches, seafood, and its specialty, chicken wings. The brand's image is significantly defined by its waitstaff, known as "Hooters Girls," whose revealing outfits are a key component of its marketing. The company generates revenue through food and beverage sales at its corporate-owned restaurants and from franchise fees and royalties. The franchise model, which began in 1986, includes an initial franchise fee, ongoing royalties of 5% of gross sales, and a national advertising fee of 2-4%. As of 2023, the average unit volume for a Hooters franchise was approximately $3.56 million.

In 1984, the original owners sold the franchise and expansion rights to a group of Atlanta investors, led by Robert H. Brooks, who formed Hooters of America, Inc. This new entity oversaw the brand's national and international expansion. Over the years, Hooters has engaged in various marketing and sponsorship activities, including involvement in motorsports and the release of an annual calendar featuring Hooters Girls. The company has also faced public criticism and legal challenges but has maintained its brand identity. While its primary target demographic has traditionally been men aged 18-35, the company has made efforts to broaden its appeal to millennials and women by updating its menu and restaurant decor.

Keywords: casual dining, restaurant chain, chicken wings, sports bar, American food, franchising, hospitality, Hooters Girls, seafood, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, international restaurant, food service, casual atmosphere, pub food, bar and grill, restaurant franchising, sports entertainment