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Wingstop Supports California Wildfire Victims in Partnership With the American Red Cross

January 27, 2025

Wingstop has announced an expansion of efforts to assist the people and communities of Southern California who have been impacted by a series of devastating wildfires.

Per a press release, the chicken wing eatery shared that via the American Red Cross, the company is making it easier for customers to support those in California who have lost their homes, belongings, and security due to the wildfire devastation. All customers have to do is round up to the nearest dollar while paying for their orders.

This monetary donation benefits the American Red Cross. Wingstop announced that over the next month, 100% of the contributions they receive in this way will be donated to the Red Cross.

“It has been tragic to see the devastation impacting California residents affected by wildfires, especially in Los Angeles County. At Wingstop, we are committed to helping those in need,” said Michael Skipworth, Wingstop’s CEO and president. “Disasters like these can devastate entire communities, making it essential for those with resources to step in and provide assistance. These wildfires are among the most destructive in California’s history, and timely relief is crucial for those affected.”

Skipworth continued, “We are truly grateful to the first responders who are working heroically and tirelessly to protect our communities. As a company that deeply values relationships, we are dedicated to supporting the Southern California community in meaningful ways as they work to rebuild. This commitment is the foundation of our partnership with the Red Cross over the next month as the fires continue to impact people throughout the region.”

Wingstop is also offering free meals to first responders who show their badges at the register and assisting those on the ground by bringing free food to local fire stations and medical facilities to help feed first responders, law enforcement, and emergency personnel on-site at the locations where the fires occurred.

Fueled by powerful winds and dry conditions, a series of ferocious wildfires erupted on Jan. 7, 2025, and roared across the Los Angeles area, killing at least 28 people. These were the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, and Hughes Fire.

Wingstop Continues To Expand Its Footprint and Influence Outside of the US

Per The Independent, Wingstop is continuing to share its delicious influence outside of the United States.

The chicken company plans to open at least 20 new locations in the United Kingdom in 2025. This will not only allow the company to expand its retail footprint, but it will also create hundreds of necessary jobs for residents in and around the opening locations.

Currently, Wingstop has 57 stores across the United Kingdom, with over 2,500 employees in those locations.

The Independent reports that the chicken market is exploding in the United Kingdom. Legendary fast-food brands such as Popeyes, Dave’s Hot Chicken, and Chick-fil-A continue to dominate the market.

Wingstop is planning to open 10 new locations in the first half of 2025, including restaurants in Swansea, Newcastle, Lakeside shopping center in Essex, Streatham in south London, and Cardigan Fields in Leeds. These spots add to the 18 new locations the chain opened in 2024, including one at Westfield Stratford in East London.