Coney I-Lander to Create Business Franchise

Tulsa's favorite hot dog vendor is on a mission to expand their brand.

Coney I-Lander, known for its sinfully delicious chili cheese coneys and Frito pies, is currently working on a plan to franchise the business.

“As our company continues to mature, we need to find ways to sustainably grow and get a presence in new markets,” said Kyle Cermak, Coney I-Lander’s Director of Business Development.

Since opening its doors in 1926, Coney I-Lander has prided itself on the fact that it’s a family owned and operated business that has stayed tried and true throughout the decades. “The famous Coney I-Lander chili is still made by our family in Tulsa,” their website boasts.

So what does this new business venture mean for the future of the restaurant? Some people may hear “franchise” and think lower quality and a loss of those family values. But Cermak says that’s not the case.

“We have been a family business since the day we started in Tulsa, and intend to remain that way for a long time to come,” he said. “We also want to continue to be good stewards of the community and increase our abilities to do good for people of all walks of life. Our commitments to both of these principles are the driving forces behind all of our decisions.”

To accelerate the franchising process, the Coney I-Lander team recently became members at 36 Degrees North, Downtown Tulsa’s new coworking space for entrepreneurs. “The first time we visited 36 Degrees North, the energy and spirit of the facility were captivating,” said Cermak. “There are a ton of smart and talented people under one roof doing such great, diverse work.  We knew immediately that it was the perfect place for us to begin our new business venture.”

Cermak says the team is excited to jump in and give back to Tulsa’s entrepreneurial community while they grow. “We hope to be a great resource for anyone that needs help with their business.  We may not always have the answers, but we may know someone who does. As long as our office door is open, please drop in.”

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Editor’s Note: To learn more about the development of the Coney I-Lander franchise, email Kyle Cermak at kyle@coneyi-lander.com. Interested in joining the 36°N community to further develop your business? Click here to learn more.