2024 Watauga County Business of the Year Winners Announced

Large Business of the Year: Tar Heel Capital/Wendy's

Small Business of the Year: Speckled Trout Outfitters

Startup Business of the Year: Wonder Pelvic Therapy

Tar Heel Capital Wendy’s Franchise has been named Large Business of the Year for its exceptional growth, resilience, and commitment to quality, community, and its employees. From its beginnings in Boone, North Carolina, in 1977, the company has grown to operate 87 Wendy’s restaurants across North and South Carolina, consistently setting the standard for quality, service, and cleanliness. Nationally recognized as one of the top franchisees in the Wendy’s system, Tar Heel Capital has received numerous accolades, including the Wendy Award, Founders Award, and induction into the Wendy’s Hall of Fame, a testament to its unwavering dedication to excellence. 

A cornerstone of the company’s success lies in its commitment to its employees, who are regarded as its most valuable asset. This dedication was exemplified during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, when the Tar Heel Capital team pulled together under extraordinary circumstances. Despite losing three restaurants to flooding, enduring water shortages at four others, and temporarily relocating their corporate office, the company rallied to support displaced employees and provide essential services to communities in crisis. Their swift action and teamwork not only kept operations running but also demonstrated their deep commitment to the people they serve.

Beyond operational excellence, Tar Heel Capital is a steadfast supporter of local communities through partnerships with organizations such as Watauga High School Athletics, Mountaineer Athletics, Samaritan’s Purse, and The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. Their dedication to making a positive impact on both a local and national scale has solidified their reputation as a leader in business and community engagement.

The Speckled Trout Outfitters has been awarded the Small Business of the Year award for its outstanding contributions to the community, local economy, and outdoor industry. As a cornerstone of the high country experience, The Speckled Trout goes beyond offering premier guided adventures and high-quality gear; it has become a beacon of resilience and community support. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the business stepped up as a vital community partner by distributing free meals, recovery gear, and organizing local aid initiatives. Their actions demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the well-being of their neighbors, solidifying their role as a trusted community leader.

This thriving business has also achieved remarkable growth, expanding its sales, workforce, and economic contributions to the Boone area. Speckled Trout Outfitters has not only enhanced the local economy but also set a standard for customer loyalty and innovation in the outdoor industry. Their introduction of all-inclusive destination trips to stunning locations such as Mexico, Cuba, Argentina, and White River, Arkansas, showcases their forward-thinking approach and ability to meet evolving customer desires. This dedication to providing unique and memorable experiences has earned them a loyal following and elevated their reputation as a premier outfitter.

Additionally, The Speckled Trout's commitment to sustainability and support for local resources has had a lasting impact on the region. By prioritizing environmentally responsible practices and collaborating with neighboring businesses, they have created a model of industry excellence rooted in community and conservation. Their ability to merge economic success with social and environmental responsibility makes them a standout small business.

Wonder Pelvic Therapy & Wellness has earned the Start-Up Business of the Year award for its transformative impact on the community, exceptional care, and commitment to addressing a critical healthcare gap. Recognizing the lack of resources for pelvic health in the High Country, this locally owned practice has stepped up to provide specialized therapy for all demographics, genders, and ages. From treating incontinence and pelvic pain to addressing bowel dysfunction and more, Wonder Pelvic Therapy & Wellness has offered hope and healing to countless individuals who might otherwise endure long waits or travel hours for care. Their mission to normalize conversations around pelvic health and foster a supportive environment has resonated deeply within the community, making them a trailblazer in this vital area of healthcare.

Founded by two local women who are passionate about their community, Wonder Pelvic Therapy & Wellness goes beyond clinical care. They actively give back through free educational talks, screenings, and partnerships with organizations like Girls on the Run and High Country Breast Cancer Foundation, who covers the cost of patients that are breast cancer survivors. By combining Capstone-certified expertise with a compassionate and individualized approach, they empower patients to meet their goals and reclaim their confidence. The clinic has also recently expanded its offerings to include massage therapy, promoting whole-body wellness and pain management.

In less than a year of being in operation, Wonder Pelvic Therapy & Wellness has not only reduced the need for residents to travel off the mountain for specialized care but has also shifted the cultural conversation around pelvic health. Their dedication to improving access, raising awareness, and fostering wellness is a testament to the power of a small business to drive meaningful change.

How Were The Award Winners Selected? 

Business of the Year nominations were submitted by Chamber and community members with winners selected by the Chamber’s Business Development committee. The Chamber received over 90 nominations for High Country businesses. 

Organizations were awarded based on criteria that includes staying power, growth in sales and/or workforce, innovative products and services, strong response to adversity, contributions to community-oriented projects, and use of local resources in business operations. 

The annual Business of the Year awards are sponsored by Carolina Mountain Title

For more information about the 2024 Watauga County Business of the Year Awards, please contact the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce at 828-264-2225 or by email at info@boonechamber.com.