In 1981, Jim Carpenter combined his retail experience with his avid enjoyment of nature and backyard birdfeeding to open the first Wild Birds Unlimited store in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Though this retail concept had never been attempted in a serious way, Jim soon discovered a great demand for a store where people could purchase high-quality items to attract backyard birds. Customers were eager to talk about their hobby or their latest bird sighting.

With several people intrigued with the idea of owning a shop like Wild Birds Unlimited, Jim decided to franchise the concept.

Two years later, the first franchised location opened, starting a successful movement that has transformed into more than 300 stores throughout the United States and Canada.