Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Defies Industry Headwinds with a Return to Growth
While much of the restaurant industry has spent the past two years scaling back, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has taken a different path marked by strategic focus, decisive leadership, and renewed expansion.
Strategic Realignment Fuels a Stronger Future
In 2024, the 84-year-old Texas-based brand made a bold move to close underperforming units, representing roughly 16 percent of its portfolio. Instead of signaling decline, this decision became the foundation for a stronger and more resilient system.
“The restaurant industry is cyclical, but leadership means acting quickly, transparently, and with purpose,” said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “We made the tough calls early, focusing on R&D to improve quality, value, and profitability in balance. We reinvested in technology, training, and guest experience, and the results speak for themselves. Our franchise system is back in growth mode.”
Rebounding with Record Momentum
By mid-2025, Dickey’s had already opened 46 new locations and is on pace to surpass 60 new openings by year end, maintaining its position as the world’s largest barbecue franchise by a widening margin.
This growth is fueled by a renewed commitment to franchise profitability, operational efficiency, and innovation across every level of the business. The company’s forward momentum plan places equal emphasis on food quality, guest experience, and technology-driven engagement.
“The strength of the Dickey’s brand comes from 84 years of family leadership and adaptability,” said Roland Dickey Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group. “We have built a system that rewards performance and supports entrepreneurs who love authentic barbecue as much as our guests do.”
Franchisees Reaffirm Confidence in the Brand
Across the country, franchisees are sharing stories of renewed energy and optimism. More than 100 current and former owners have publicly affirmed their confidence in the brand’s direction, highlighting the positive impact of recent operational improvements.
“As an operator, I have seen firsthand how quickly the brand responds to market changes,” said David Boister, a 20-year Dickey’s franchisee. “Our support team, technology, and food innovation have never been stronger, and guests are responding.”
The Road Ahead: Growth with Purpose
As Dickey’s expands its footprint across the United States and international markets, the brand continues to honor its heritage while building for the future. With a focus on franchise growth, culinary excellence, and guest loyalty, Dickey’s is not just surviving
industry challenges but redefining what success looks like for a legacy restaurant brand.
From its Dallas headquarters to pits around the world, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit stands as a story of resilience, renewal, and leadership in the face of change.
