In a competitive franchise landscape, choosing the right brand is about more than just financials—it’s about alignment with values, reliable support, a legacy of success, and a product people genuinely love. For countless entrepreneurs across the country, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit checks every box.
Founded in 1941, Dickey’s has grown into the largest barbecue franchise in the world while retaining the community-driven roots that make its locations feel local, authentic, and personal. Franchisees across the U.S. continue to choose Dickey’s for a reason— and their stories highlight why this iconic brand is still gaining momentum more than 80 years later.
A Brand That’s Built to Last
One of the most commonly cited reasons for investing in Dickey’s is its established legacy and proven model. With over 80 years of experience and hundreds of operating locations, Dickey’s has shown it can evolve with the times while remaining true to its heritage.
Franchisees often describe being impressed by the balance between scale and accessibility. Dickey’s is big enough to offer robust support systems but lean enough to maintain close relationships with operators.
The takeaway? This is a brand with staying power, backed by history, but still growing in modern markets.
Support That Doesn’t End After the Sale
A key factor that sets Dickey’s apart is the level of ongoing operational support provided to its franchisees. While some franchises offer minimal interaction after initial
setup, Dickey’s maintains a strong, consistent presence—something many owners say they didn’t expect but now value deeply.
From launch to day-to-day operations, franchisees are equipped with:
• Training and tools designed for long-term efficiency
• Strategic support across marketing, inventory, and staffing
• Coaching on cost control, quality assurance, and customer service • National branding aligned with local customization
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all operation. It’s a franchise system designed for partnership, and it shows in the way operators grow—and often expand—within the brand.
Revenue That Rewards Discipline, Not Hype
While some in the franchise industry express concern over overly optimistic financial projections, Dickey’s approaches growth differently. The brand emphasizes realistic expectations based on data, experience, and a system that rewards consistency.
Franchisees who closely follow the Dickey’s model—leveraging its catering systems, local marketing strategies, and vendor relationships—report dependable, scalable performance.
Those who succeed within the system credit it to three key things:
1. Sticking to the proven process
2. Maintaining quality in both food and service
3. Staying involved in local outreach and community activity
This realistic, system-based approach allows franchisees to set and reach goals rooted in performance, not projection.
A Menu That Drives Loyalty
One of the most compelling parts of the Dickey’s experience is the food—and franchisees consistently say it’s what drew them to the brand in the first place.
The menu features:
• Hickory-smoked brisket, ribs, sausage, and chicken
• Classic sides like green beans, mac & cheese, and barbecue beans • House-made sauces in original, spicy, and sweet varieties
• Family-style platters and individual combos for all preferences
This isn’t just barbecue—it’s slow-smoked, Texas-style comfort food that keeps people coming back. For operators, the quality of the menu translates directly into guest satisfaction, repeat business, and five-star reviews.
And when it comes to catering, the food practically sells itself. Corporate lunches, weddings, graduations, and reunions are frequent sources of revenue—helping stores thrive well beyond traditional dine-in traffic.
Community Engagement That Feeds Growth
One of Dickey’s greatest strengths is how quickly the brand integrates into local communities. Through initiatives like Kids Eat Free Sundays, charity fundraisers, and partnerships with civic organizations, franchisees are able to become visible, trusted members of their neighborhoods almost immediately.
Community integration isn’t just a value—it’s a strategy. By showing up where people gather, Dickey’s owners generate word-of-mouth marketing and long-term loyalty.
And because the business model includes opportunities for flexible catering and event-based sales, it also offers multiple revenue streams that connect directly with local demand.
Family-Friendly, Entrepreneur-Ready
Many operators are drawn to Dickey’s because it aligns with both their business goals and personal values. The brand’s family-friendly vibe, laid-back atmosphere, and inviting locations make it a place where customers and employees alike feel at home.
For those looking to build something long-term, Dickey’s offers a clear path. Whether operating a single store or scaling into multiple locations, franchisees have the chance to create a business that’s profitable, sustainable, and aligned with their lifestyle.
Consistent Experiences, Shared Success
Operators from different regions—rural towns, suburban neighborhoods, and urban centers—echo similar feedback. The Dickey’s model delivers when owners:
• Commit to quality in every customer interaction
• Follow the systems provided in training and support
• Leverage catering and community outreach consistently
• Focus on building strong teams and maintaining brand standards
By doing so, franchisees report stability, growth, and the opportunity to reinvest in their markets.
A Clear Choice for Franchisees Seeking Legacy and Growth
The decision to franchise with Dickey’s isn’t made on a whim—it’s made by people who are looking for a brand with structure, scalability, and soul.
Here’s what operators across the country consistently report:
• A trustworthy legacy that inspires customer confidence
• Robust support systems that continue well after opening
• High-quality food that drives repeat visits and catering sales
• Clear and actionable financial models rooted in performance • Authentic community presence that builds strong local relationships • A culture of integrity, growth, and franchisee partnership
Thinking About Owning a Franchise? Start Here.
Franchising isn’t about luck—it’s about choosing a system that works and committing to making it your own. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit offers more than just a recognizable name. It offers a foundation for entrepreneurs who want to grow, lead, and serve through real, honest barbecue.
Whether you’re looking to open your first location or scale up in a new region, now is the time to take the next step.
Explore franchising opportunities at franchise.dickeys.com
Download the Franchise Kit, schedule a discovery call, or visit a local Dickey’s and experience the brand first-hand.
Because when you combine great food, great people, and a proven system, success is always on the menu.