Atomic Wings chicken franchise plans new locations in Iowa

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — A New York-style buffalo wing franchise is planning 10 locations across Iowa, Nebraska and the Dakotas over the coming years.

Developers are targeting Iowa City, the Quad Cities, Des Moines and Cedar Falls as they plan Atomic Wings’ entry into a new market. Their first franchise in the region, opening soon in Sioux Falls, S.D., will serve as a home training base for the other locations across Iowa.

Atomic Wings area representatives Eric and Stefanie Engelstad, who will oversee the entire rollout, say they hope to open their first South Dakota location in early 2024 and open all 10 locations within the next seven years.

They are searching for franchisees in each market to open up the rest of the locations. The order of openings will depend on the franchisee interest.

“We’re looking for the right growth, not necessary the fastest growth,” Stefanie Engelstad said.

Eric Engelstad, a former area representative for Firehouse Subs, owns one Firehouse Subs location in Sioux City. As the Atomic Wings brand eyes further growth across the country, states like Iowa are an untapped market for new concepts. He believes the four-state region could easily accommodate closer to 20 locations.

The chain’s signatures include its wings with 14 sauce options, and waffle fries with aioli.

“I know that Iowa City and Cedar Rapids are growing. We’re looking for more options and opportunities,” Eric Engelstad said.

Atomic Wings, started in 1989, has more than 20 locations, primarily in New York and Maryland, with additional expansions planned for Arizona, Nevada, California, Indiana and Texas.

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