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How Daryl Smith Found His Passion in the Food Truck Industry
Daryl Smith, a San Antonio-based entrepreneur, transformed his college project into a thriving business over the last decade. He began his culinary journey with a food truck selling wings to college students. Today, his brand, WingIt, and his drink brand, SipIt, are community staples, boasting a total of 16 locations.
The Journey: From a College Project to a Culinary Empire
Beginning with his food truck concept as part of a business marketing class at Texas Southern University, Smith’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident early on. “I found an old taco truck on Craigslist and started selling wings around my college campus,” he recalls. Despite facing multiple challenges—changing cities, joining the Air Force Reserve, and eventually returning home to San Antonio—his vision never wavered.
Why San Antonio Became a Key Player
Smith recognized the potential for food trucks in San Antonio while serving in the Air Force. The city became his base, where he started securing contracts at local venues like Fort Sam Houston. This not only established his presence but also ignited the entrepreneurial spark that led to WingIt’s creation.
Scaling Success with SipIt
“Once we introduced alcohol to WingIt, everything changed,” Smith explains. This bold move to add margaritas and daiquiris attracted a devoted customer base, ultimately paving the way for SipIt, which was launched in early 2020. Despite the pandemic despite limitations, SipIt became highly successful, instantly appealing to those seeking a quick and fun drink option.
By focusing on franchising as a growth strategy, Smith and his partner, Bernardo Baxter, were able to maintain momentum. “Today, we have both corporate and franchise locations, demonstrating the significance of adaptability in entrepreneurship,” says Smith.
The Heart of a Community Builder
A significant part of Smith's mission goes beyond profits. He actively engages with local youth, sharing his journey to inspire future entrepreneurs from underserved communities. “I want young people, especially those who look like me, to see what’s possible,” he emphasizes. Smith believes that sharing his story is crucial for fostering hope and ambition among the next generation in San Antonio.
This commitment to community, along with innovative approaches to his business, has made Daryl Smith a notable figure in the San Antonio culinary scene—a true testament to the power of perseverance and creativity in building a successful brand.
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