Hickory River Smokehouse - Franchise
Quick Summary
The Franchise for You! Hickory River Smokehouse is an award-winning barbecue restaurant that has perfected the art of dry-rubbed, hickory-smoked meats. With Hickory River Smokehouse, you can be part of a successful and proven business model. The company has a strong brand identity, a loyal customer base, and a support system that will help you every step of the way. You will receive the guidance and tools you need to succeed. Inquire today to learn more!
*Please contact "Hickory River Smokehouse" to confirm the accuracy of any information provided on this page.
Hickory River Smokehouse
Business Cost, Fees & Facts for 2026
| Minimum Cash Required | $80,000 | |
| Training & Support | Yes | |
| Military/Veteran Promotion | Yes |
Available In These States:
- IL
- IN
- KY
- MI
- OH
- Overview
- Military & Veteran
Hickory River Smokehouse - Franchise
Hickory River Smokehouse is an award-winning barbecue restaurant that focuses on dry-rubbed, hickory-smoked meats. Each location has an on-site smokehouse that gives us an edge above the rest by following tried and true traditional methods of barbecue. The fast casual concept is the new driving force in the restaurant industry, and Hickory River is the perfect example of fast casual done right - allowing for higher customer service, and ensuring only the freshest premium meats, along with high-quality sides, are served to the customer within minutes of ordering. Hickory River Smokehouse maintains a unique and fresh spin on the fast casual restaurant market.
The Opportunity
Hickory River Smokehouse offers franchise opportunities to serious, qualified individuals or teams dedicated to carrying on the vision and enjoying the benefits of owning an award- winning barbecue restaurant. Our founder, owners, and franchise partners are here every step of the way. With extensive knowledge and years of experience, our team is well positioned to support franchisees and help you succeed.
Hickory River Smokehouse has perfected the art of dry-rubbed, hickory-smoked meats. The concept is fast casual, which means that customers can enjoy a high-quality meal within minutes of ordering. This is made possible by having an on-site smokehouse that follows traditional methods of barbecue, ensuring that only the freshest premium meats are served.
Franchising with Hickory River Smokehouse is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is passionate about barbecue and wants to own their own business. With a proven business model, a strong support system, and a comprehensive marketing program, you can be confident that you will succeed as a franchisee.
Why Hickory River Smokehouse
- Multiple Revenue Streams
Dine-in, carry-out, drive-thru, order online, catering, group delivery, concessions and fundraising - Hands-On Training & Support
Assistance with site selection, vendor setup, software, equipment, recipes, food preparation and instruction - Top-of-the-Line Equipment
POS system, commercial kitchen package with smokers, digital menu and signage - Marketing, Graphic Design & Multi-Media Services
Website, social media, graphics, email and rewards clubs - Veteran-Founded
A proud Marine, founder Brad Bowman supports other veterans in becoming successful business owners - SBA Approved
Making the loan process as short and simple as possible, saving you valuable time
Never-Ending Franchisee Support
Being a part of the Hickory River team means never being alone. Our success depends on making every franchisee successful! Not only do you get our famous recipes and proven operations system, but you also get the corporate and Franchise Team support. We are here to help guide you and provide feedback, input, and assistance along the way. Our corporate marketing group and operations managers will be by your side day in and day out.
From site selection and lease negotiation to equipment purchase and staff training, Hickory River Smokehouse will provide you with the guidance and tools you need to succeed such as:
- Comprehensive Marketing Services
- Graphic Design & Promotional Materials
- Website & Social Media Management
- Detailed Marketing Calendar
- Email & Rewards Clubs for Customer Retention
- Reputation & Social Review Management
- Professional Food Photography & Catalog
- Monthly Store Audit
- New Menu Development
- Back Office Accounting
- POS System
- Digital Menu Signage
- Food Contract Rebates
- Customer Feedback Management
Today, Hickory River Smokehouse is celebrating over 25 years in business, with 6 franchise locations across Illinois and Ohio. Locations include Urbana, Springfield, Decatur, Peoria, Champaign, IL and Tipp City, OH.
Inquire today and the next franchise location could be yours!
Hickory River Smokehouse offers qualified veterans a $5,000 discount off of the franchise fee.
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