Meet Chris Lee, a Maui Wowi Franchisee in Phoenix
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to own a Maui Wowi franchise, Chris Lee’s journey offers valuable insight. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Chris operates his mobile franchise at large venues, including Cardinal Stadium, concert events, and NASCAR races. His path to ownership, strategies for success, and perspective on the brand’s appeal showcase why Maui Wowi is a great opportunity for those looking for flexibility and growth.
What did you do before owning a Maui Wowi franchise?
Lee: I was a general manager for Applebee’s, but the long hours weren’t for me. I started a restaurant repair service, and after 15 years, I was introduced to Maui Wowi through a friend in Denver. He was a franchisee and told me how much he loved the business. The flexibility and lifestyle really appealed to me.
How did you bring the franchise to Phoenix?
Lee: I partnered with my friend, who had an empire agreement, allowing him to expand. I made calls, set up meetings, and secured venues. Eventually, an empire agreement became available, and I purchased it. That allowed me to grow the business here.
How do you secure locations for your business?
Lee: It started with a lot of cold calling. I reached out to every venue I could—sports stadiums, concert halls, and spring training facilities. Once I got a meeting, I brought samples and made sure to build great relationships with vendors. If you deliver a quality experience, they’ll recommend you to others.
What do customers love most about Maui Wowi?
Lee: The flavor! Even in surprising places like hockey arenas, people line up for our frozen drinks. Customers recognize the brand and keep coming back. I hear it all the time—”Oh, they have Maui Wowi here!” That brand loyalty is huge.
Does Maui Wowi give you the flexibility to live the life you want?
Lee: Absolutely. It’s not a typical nine-to-five job. I control my schedule, and there are busy seasons—like spring training—but the rest of the year, I have the freedom to work when I want.
What kind of support do franchisees receive?
Lee: There’s a strong network of franchisees who share advice, and corporate support is always there when needed. There’s even a franchisee group where we can post questions and get quick feedback.
What type of person thrives as a Maui Wowi franchisee?
Lee: You need to be a self-starter. Corporate provides support, but it’s up to you to make your business work. If you’re willing to put in the effort, it can grow significantly.
How scalable is the business?
Lee: It’s very scalable. I started with a few carts and expanded into a trailer. If you want to go bigger, you can target major venues, add locations, or even do corporate catering. There are so many ways to grow.
How do you see your business evolving over the next five to ten years?
Lee: I’m always looking for new opportunities, like securing a spot at Chase Field. It takes persistence, but if you keep following up, doors open. Maui Wowi makes it easy to expand because it’s mobile and adaptable.
What advice would you give to someone considering a Maui Wowi franchise?
Lee: Think about what you want. If you like mobility and having control over your schedule, this is a great option. The startup costs are lower compared to other franchises, and there’s plenty of opportunity if you put in the work.
Why do people love Maui Wowi?
Lee: It’s a fun brand! From the surfboard menu to the aloha greeting, it creates a great experience for customers. Whether they’re grabbing a smoothie or a cocktail, it brings a little bit of island life wherever we go.
Why is now a good time to invest in a Maui Wowi franchise?
Lee: The economy is improving, and Maui Wowi offers a lower-cost entry compared to many franchises. It’s a flexible, scalable business that allows you to create the lifestyle you want.
Become a Franchise Owner with Maui Wowi
Interested in learning more about franchising with Maui Wowi? Learn more about the franchise opportunity here. To start a conversation with our ‘Ohana about becoming a franchisee, fill out our form here. We look forward to learning more about your business goals and how we can help you achieve them with Maui Wowi!