BP Smokehouse is a fast-casual barbeque restaurant franchise focused on authentic smoked meats and bold, handcrafted flavors. The brand was founded in 2000 by Darren Price, who began competing on the BBQ circuit with a small smoker and trailer.

Years of regional and national competitions helped shape the brand’s reputation for high-quality barbeque. BP Smokehouse is headquartered in Tomah, Wisconsin, where its first brick-and-mortar restaurant opened in 2014.

After proving its concept through catering and restaurant operations, BP Smokehouse expanded through franchising. The franchise targets operators entering the fast-casual barbeque segment with a tested business model.

BP Smokehouse’s menu centers on smoked ribs, beef brisket, pulled pork, pulled chicken, and bratwurst. Traditional barbeque sides complete the offering. Many locations also generate revenue through catering and retail sales of branded sauces and rubs. The brand stands out by delivering competition-level barbeque in a streamlined, high-efficiency restaurant format.

Training

BP Smokehouse provides a comprehensive training program to support new franchisees in launching and running their restaurants effectively. This includes structured training, operational guidance, and on-site assistance before and after opening.

1. Initial Training Program
   BP Smokehouse conducts a mandatory initial training program for franchisees. This training covers key areas such as restaurant operations, customer service, food preparation, and business management. It is led by the franchisor and must be completed before opening.
2. On-Site Opening Support
   The franchisor sends a representative to provide two weeks of on-site support during the business launch phase. This support includes hands-on assistance in training employees and ensuring proper implementation of operational procedures.
3. Post-Opening Advisory Support
   After the restaurant opens, BP Smokehouse offers continued advisory support, including help with operations and problem-solving. Franchisees may also request in-person support, which is available for a fee plus expenses. This ensures ongoing access to franchisor expertise as the business grows.

‍Territory Protection

BP Smokehouse provides franchisees with territory protection by granting an exclusive territory as part of the franchise agreement. Within this territory, neither the franchisor nor other franchisees may open a company-owned or franchised location under the BP Smokehouse brand or a similar brand.

This protection is not contingent on sales performance or market penetration, and the franchisor does not reserve any right to later alter the boundaries of this territory.

However, if a franchisee signs a Multi-Unit Development Agreement (MUDA), no exclusive territory is granted. Franchisees under a MUDA may face competition from other franchisees, company-owned outlets, or other distribution channels controlled by the franchisor.

Furthermore, BP Smokehouse reserves the right to use various channels, such as internet sales or telemarketing, to conduct business in any territory, including those granted to franchisees.