Great Wolf Lodge
In 1997, Great Wolf Resorts opened its first location in Wisconsin Dells, WI. Originally named Black Wolf Lodge, the 117-suite resort featured a groundbreaking 20,000-square-foot indoor water park—one of the first of its kind. The concept was an immediate success. Just two years later, the resort expanded to 309 suites, doubling the size of the indoor water park. It was rebranded as Great Wolf Lodge and quickly became a trendsetter in the indoor resort industry. Read more…
Sonic Restaurants
Inspired by their slogan, “Service at the Speed of Sound,” Troy Smith and Charlie Pappe rebranded their drive-in business as Sonic. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Sonic began to grow rapidly. Smith and Pappe formed partnerships with local entrepreneurs, allowing each location to adapt pricing and menu options to fit the needs of its community—a free-market approach that fueled expansion. Read more…
Slim Chickens
Slim Chickens is a standout in the fast-casual dining space, offering a craveable menu centered on Southern-inspired comfort food. Known for their fresh, never-frozen chicken that’s hand-breaded and cooked to order, the brand delivers a high-quality dining experience across every item—from crispy tenders and sauced wings to salads, wraps, chicken & waffles, and hearty sandwiches. Read more…
