Brand Champion: Derek & Jennifer O’Hara

Derek O’Hara owned a trucking company that passed through Dallas where he saw signs for Dickey’s Barbecue Pit everywhere. The native Londoner gave it a try and was hooked on the franchise opportunity.

“I got to meet Roland Dickey, Jr. before I even signed a franchise agreement,” said O’Hara. “Meeting him really helped make my decision. He told me following the system was the surest way to be a successful restaurant owner – it was a no brainer when I looked at the 70 year old brand.”

The franchise sales team took a personal approach with O’Hara and let him tour various locations in the Dallas Fort Worth area including Garland and Waxahachie. He opened his first location in Greeley in 2011. It was a hit. This year, Derek and his wife, Jennifer opened their second location in Greeley.

 “We were ready for a second location,” Said O’Hara. We are really engaged owner operators who consistently use the resources available from corporate including marketing and training.”

The O’Hara’s first store averages a catering percentage over 20 percent. The couple attributes that success rate to being involved in the Greeley Business Chamber and consistent community marketing efforts.