Former Marine Sets Out to Open Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Arizona

Former Marine Sets Out to Open Dickey's Barbecue Pit in ArizonaDickey’s Barbecue Pit, the largest quick-serve barbecue chain in the country, continues to grow as Thomas Emmons, an honorably discharged member of the Marine Corps, signs on to open a Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Mesa, Arizona.

This is the first Dickey’s franchise opportunity, located at 1914 S. Power Rd., for Emmons and the Mesa community.

“I chose Dickey’s because not only do they have the best Texas-style barbecue, but there’s also a great concept of pit-smoked barbecue at a reasonable price and in a fast casual environment.  It felt like the perfect fit. As an added benefit, my Mom has relocated to Arizona to assist me in expanding the Dickey’s name in Phoenix,” Emmons said.

Emmons lived in Ft. Worth, Texas for nearly a decade, where he discovered Texas-style barbecue by way of Dickey’s hickory smoked meats and home-style sides.

“I grew up working in my family’s restaurant.  Then my United States Marine Corps career led me to a Vice President position at a prominent financial institution,” said Emmons. “The restaurant skills I learned in my youth, along with the leadership skills provided by the USMC and the business skills gained in the world of finance, have undoubtedly prepared me for this new journey with Dickey’s Barbecue.” 

Emmons is actively involved in Veteran charity events and encourages everyone to donate to the USMC’s Toys for Tots and will involve his new restaurant in these community endeavors.

“We are so thrilled Dickey’s is expanding in Arizona.  It’s a great feeling to offer someone who so valiantly served our country with the opportunity to build his own business,” President of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Roland Dickey, Jr. said. “As our company grows, we grow as a family and we look forward to reaching out to the Mesa community. This is another great opportunity for Thomas and for the company.”

Texas-based Dickey’s Barbecue Pit opened in 1941 and began franchising in 1994. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is well-known for their hot pit-smoked signature meats, complimentary ice cream and the big yellow cups.

“We have so many new franchise owners who are investing with us. With this economy, we are glad people trust us for success and do not take that trust for granted. Their victory is our victory and we plan on only moving forward,” Dickey said.

The preparation prior to opening a Dickey’s franchise is extensive, ensuring that everyone is thoroughly prepared to hit the ground running.

There are two Dickey’s Barbecue Pit locations currently operating in Arizona.

The original Dallas location is still open for business and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is still owned and operated by the Dickey Family.

There are 147 locations in 33 states.

Even today, Dickey’s still slow smokes all of their signature meats overnight in every restaurant.  

Committed to exceptional quality at a great value, Dickey’s Barbecue is a great match for the Mesa area, according to Emmons.

More information on Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is available at www.dickeys.com. Franchising information is available at 866-340-6188.