Andover, Minnesota – October 21, 2026 -- Beef 'O' Brady's has named Andover franchisee Bradley Dethmers its 2026 Franchisee of the Year, and he also took the brand's Marketer of the Year Award at parent company FSC Franchise Co.'s 2026 conference. The family sports pub chain operates 120 locations in 21 states.
Dethmers bought the Andover restaurant in May 2021 with nearly 30 years of hospitality experience
The Andover restaurant marks 18 years in business on October 6. Before becoming a Beef 'O' Brady's franchisee, Dethmers opened restaurants around the world and worked with several franchise brands. That background shapes his focus on hospitality and guest relationships.
FSC Franchise Co. CEO Chris Elliott credits relationship-led management
Elliott said Dethmers puts relationships first with guests, his team and the surrounding community. According to Elliott, he has built a restaurant where families, schools and local organizations know they have a partner.
Grassroots marketing earns Dethmers the Marketer of the Year Award
The award recognizes franchisees who build connections with guests, employees and communities while keeping their businesses involved locally. Dethmers said he has always believed "grassroots marketing is the best way to go."
He traces his approach to growing up in a small town, where residents rallied around schools, teams and organizations that needed support. He says he built a community base in Andover rather than expecting customers to arrive immediately.
Staff are part of the model. Employees prepare for busy fundraising days and local events knowing they will have the support needed to serve a full restaurant.