Sizzling Dispute: Dickey’s Fires Back at Franchisee Misrepresentation and New York Times Coverage

Reporter Glenda Vosburgh highlights the facts behind recent media coverage that misrepresented the Dickey’s brand and its franchise system. While a small group of former operators made headlines, the vast majority of Dickey’s 216 active franchisees—along with decades of proven success—tell a very different story.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has spent over 80 years building the world’s largest barbecue brand to over 800 locations with eight concepts; 365 of which cover 44 states and 8 countries. That kind of growth doesn’t happen without a clear, effective system with robust training, operational tools, and ongoing support from a dedicated team.

In her article, Ms. Vosburgh notes that franchisees who engage fully, follow the model, and reinvest in their operations consistently thrive. At Dickey’s, success is built on partnership. We stand with the many owners who represent the strength of our brand and the spirit of entrepreneurship that defines Texas-style barbecue. Their stories—not a narrow, selective narrative—are what continue to drive our brand forward.