Dickey’s Questions Answered
Get clear answers to the most common questions about Dickey’s franchise model, legal claims, and the truth behind the headlines.
Have questions about Dickey’s lawsuits, legal claims, or the facts behind the headlines? You’re in the right place. This FAQ page from FranchiseeBiz offers clear, fact-based answers about franchise operations, disputed allegations, and the truth behind recent media coverage. Whether you’re a current franchise owner, legal professional, or journalist, our answers are backed by documented Dickey’s evidence, official legal filings, and firsthand accounts. Explore the most common questions and get informed with content from the Dickey’s archive and beyond.
Why have so many Dickey’s locations closed in recent years? Does this signal a failing brand?
Dickey’s closures are consistent with industry-wide challenges. The often-cited 28% figure is baseless—Dickey’s hasn’t released public store counts since its 2024 FDD. Closures across all restaurant chains surged due to pandemic effects, labor shortages, and rising costs. Dickey’s store performance trends align with national norms.
Are franchisees required to pay inflated prices to vendors affiliated with Dickey’s?
No. Dickey’s vendor pricing is highly competitive. Its cost-of-goods-sold (COGS) model averages 30%, compared to 36% for most barbecue chains. A comparative pricing study shows that Dickey’s beats or matches standard suppliers like Sam’s Club and US Foods on key ingredients.
Has the Dickey Foundation stopped providing grants to first responders?
No. Since 2020, the Dickey Foundation has distributed millions in grants and equipment—including protective gear, tactical vests, rescue drones, and firefighting tools—to police, fire, and EMS departments nationwide.
Are you curious about Dickey’s franchise questions? Learn more about the grant process here.
Is it true that Dickey’s sales training is modeled after The Wolf of Wall Street?
No. That is a false and misleading claim. The company’s internal reading list is voluntary, and that book has never appeared on it. Dickey’s sales system is grounded in professional franchise development practices.
Did Dickey’s mistreat Harpinder Chauhan, causing the failure of his restaurants?
Chauhan sought out the Dickey’s brand and repeatedly expanded. Despite ongoing support, his locations consistently failed to meet operational standards and underreported sales. These same stores have since become profitable under new ownership.
Are the legal claims against Dickey’s based solely on aggrieved franchisees seeking justice?
No. Court documents detail a coordinated campaign led by the Zarco law firm that includes witness tampering, coercive legal threats, and media manipulation. The aim appears to be reputational and financial damage, not justice.
Did the arbitrator in the G Six case treat both sides fairly?
No. Dickey’s formally objected to Arbitrator Gary Leydig’s conduct, citing multiple violations of AAA ethics and procedural rules. The arbitrator imposed disproportionate sanctions that excluded Dickey’s from defending itself—effectively predetermining the outcome.
Many people have Dickey’s franchise questions regarding this issue. Read more about the case here.