East Coast Wings + Grill (“ECW+G”), a full-service restaurant franchise known for its award-winning wings and made-to-order menu,is proud to announce that franchisees, Brent and Sherry Weaver, have been named 2026 Franchisees of the Year by the International Franchise Association (IFA). The prestigious award recognizes franchise owners who exemplify excellence in their businesses, communities, and franchise systems.
As two of East Coast Wings + Grill’s first franchise owners, the Weavers have spent more than two decades demonstrating an unwavering commitment to operational excellence, community leadership, and brand stewardship. As successful multi-unit operators, they have earned numerous company awards for operational performance while building loyal teams and creating restaurants that have become gathering places within their communities.
The IFA’s Franchisee of the Year awards recognize franchise owners who demonstrate excellence in business, give back to their communities, create opportunities for those around them and support their fellow franchisees. The Weavers were honored at the IFA26 Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., Sept. 14-16, for being an outstanding franchise owner with excellence in entrepreneurship, community outreach, workforce development, and service to others. Nominated by their brand, the IFA Franchisee of the Year awards are given to top franchisees from IFA member brands across industries and communities around the country.
“Franchisees of the Year demonstrate what franchising is all about – individuals who have committed their lives and careers to the betterment of those around them, building something bigger than themselves,” said Matt Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “Through their leadership, they create jobs and build careers, give back to their communities, and support other franchisees, all while exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of franchising. We are proud to recognize Brent and Sherry Weaver with IFA’s highest honor for individual franchisees and celebrate their commitment to making a difference both within their business and beyond.”
What distinguishes the Weavers is their long-term vision. Their newest project in the Piedmont area of North Carolina, goes beyond opening another restaurant. They are developing the property from the ground up to own the real estate and serve as their own landlords while creating a commercial center anchored by East Coast Wings + Grill. At the same time, they are preparing for a generational transition, mentoring their son, Andrew, to eventually lead the family’s restaurants and keep the business family-owned and locally operated for decades to come.
Their commitment to community showed following Hurricane Helene in 2024, when the Weavers organized donation drives across all three of their Winston-Salem area restaurants, rallying guests and fellow franchisees and partnering with the franchise support team to deliver food and essential supplies. Through those efforts, thousands of donated items and care packages reached families impacted by the storm.
“Brent and Sherry represent the very best of what franchising can be,” said Sam Ballas, CEO and Founder of ECW+G. “They have built an exceptional business, but what stands out just as much is their generosity and their vision for the future. Brent and Sherry embody the spirit of this award, and we could not be prouder to see them recognized by the IFA.”
East Coast Wings + Grill continues to seek qualified entrepreneurs interested in building scalable, community-focused full-service restaurants with the support of an established franchise system. For more information about East Coast Wings + Grill and franchise opportunities, visit www.eastcoastwingsfranchise.com.
