From Barbecue Dreams to Business Success: Meet Dickey’s Top Franchise Powerhouses

The Untold Secrets Behind How These Franchisees Turned Hickory-Smoked Passion  into Profits

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, the world’s largest barbecue franchise, is proud to celebrate the  extraordinary achievements of its franchisees, including Toni Espinoza, Saleh Nofal,  Gary Mulligan, Nidhi Bhatt, David Boisture, and Tom Eggerud. These franchisees  represent the heart of the brand, proving that hard work, resilience, and a genuine love  for barbecue can create thriving businesses and strong community connections. 

So, what sets these franchisees apart? While each operates in a unique market, they  share common qualities that drive their success: passion for the brand, a relentless  work ethic, adaptability, and a deep commitment to delivering Legit. Texas.  Barbecue.™ to their communities. 

Shared Traits of Success 

1. Passion for the Brand: 

Every successful Dickey’s franchisee has an unwavering belief in the brand’s  mission. “Dickey’s Barbecue Pit isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience,” said  Gary Mulligan. “We serve more than food; we create memories for our guests.”  Toni Espinoza, who opened her first location in Fort Stockton, TX, in 2022 and  expanded to Big Springs in 2024, echoed this sentiment: “The opportunity to  share authentic barbecue with my community is what drives me every single  day.” 

2. Resilience and Adaptability: 

In the ever-changing restaurant industry, resilience is key. Franchisees like Saleh  Nofal (Panama City Beach, FL) and Nidhi Bhatt (Brooksville, FL) have  demonstrated the ability to overcome challenges while embracing innovation.  “The last few years have taught us the importance of flexibility,” said Saleh.  “Adapting to customer needs and staying focused on quality is how we’ve built  trust and loyalty.”

3. Community-Centered Leadership: 

For Dickey’s franchisees, it’s not just about the business—it’s about building  connections. “Barbecue is about bringing people together,” said Nidhi Bhatt,  who operates a thriving Dickey’s location in Brooksville, Florida. “When you  invest in your community, they invest in you. That’s the real secret to success.”  Tom Eggerud, who opened his location in Minnesota in 2010, agreed, stating,  “When guests walk through the door, I want them to feel like family. That’s what  keeps them coming back.” 

4. Relentless Work Ethic: 

Dedication and hard work are hallmarks of these franchisees’ success.  “Success doesn’t come easy,” said Toni Espinoza. “But when you love what you  do, it doesn’t feel like work. Every plate we serve is a reflection of the effort and  care we put into our business.” 

5. Commitment to Quality and Hospitality: 

Franchisees understand that delivering exceptional food and service is the  foundation of the Dickey’s brand. “Consistency is the secret sauce,” said Saleh  Nofal. “From the moment a guest walks in, they should feel the same warmth  and quality that made them choose Dickey’s in the first place.” 

How They Work the Business 

These franchisees exemplify operational excellence through: 

1. Guest Engagement: David Boisture, a 22-year veteran in Dallas, TX, shares,  “Knowing your guests by name and understanding what brings them back  creates loyalty that no ad campaign can buy.” 
2. Smart Operations: Efficiently managing costs and maintaining food quality are  key priorities. Gary Mulligan, who operates locations in Whiting and Mount Holly,  MJ, says, “Dickey’s has provided us with a streamlined system that makes  running the business simple, but it’s our attention to detail that makes it  successful. 
3. Team Investment: “Our team is everything,” said Nidhi Bhatt. “By empowering  them and creating a positive work environment, we ensure they deliver the same  warmth and hospitality we believe in.” 

Franchisee Testimonials 

These franchisees credit Dickey’s support system for their success. “Dickey’s gave me  the tools to build a business, but it was my determination and belief in the brand that  made the difference,” said Toni Espinoza. “When you pair a proven franchise model  with a passion for what you do, success is inevitable.”

For Saleh Nofal, the decision to join the Dickey’s family was clear: “I chose Dickey’s  because of its legacy and the incredible support system for franchisees. From training  to marketing, everything is set up to help you succeed.” 

Leadership Perspective 

“Our franchisees are the heart and soul of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit,” said Roland Dickey,  Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group. “They are living proof that passion, hard work, and a  commitment to community are the ingredients for success. We’re proud to have them  as part of our family.” 

Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., added, “The strength of  our brand lies in the dedication of franchisees like Toni, Saleh, Gary, Nidhi, David, and  Tom. They embody the spirit of hospitality and resilience that has kept Dickey’s thriving  for more than 80 years.” 

The Legacy of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 

Founded in 1941 in Dallas, TX, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has grown into the world’s largest  barbecue franchise. Its 866 locations span eight concepts and seven countries, offering  a variety of formats, including traditional dine-ins, food trucks, ghost kitchens, and  airport locations. With more than 250 franchise owners (franchisees) and family-owned  restaurants, in 866 locations, the brand continues to thrive and innovate. Details about  the brand and profiles of its franchisees can be found at dickeysfranchise.com and  dickeys.com.  

Dickey’s third-generation leadership has expanded the brand’s footprint and  capabilities, including USDA-certified food production facilities in Texas and the  Southeast. The brand’s proprietary technology company, Spark Hospitality Technology,  headquartered in Rijeka, Croatia, develops innovative tools for restaurant operations.  Customers worldwide can also savor Dickey’s signature flavors through  BBQAtHome.com. 

Beyond barbecue, Dickey’s demonstrates its commitment to communities through The  Dickey Foundation, which supports first responders and community initiatives.

For More Information Visit Coopermagazine