#China #Shanghai #Church's Texas Chicken #Texas Chicken

Church's Texas Chicken Enters China

In a significant move marking its global expansion, Church's Texas Chicken® and Texas Chicken™ have announced their entry into the Chinese market through a landmark agreement to open 600 restaurants. This exciting development represents a major milestone for the brand, as it prepares to introduce its renowned Texas-inspired flavors to this vibrant and influential consumer market. The first location is slated to debut in Shanghai during the summer of 2026.

The expansion into China positions the brand as a strong player in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) segment, following a successful period of growth in European countries and other international locations in 2025. Church's goal is to provide craveable food while also embodying a community-oriented spirit, and this new venture in China is a step towards fulfilling that mission on a larger scale.

To facilitate this unprecedented expansion, Texas Chicken has partnered with Deke Shengtang, a prominent local QSR operator known for managing multiple brands. This partnership will be instrumental in executing the ambitious plan to establish over 600 locations across China in the years to come. Roland Gonzalez, the CEO of Church's Texas Chicken and Texas Chicken, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, emphasizing that it is “more than growth” and a “defining moment for our brand.”

Gonzalez highlighted China's status as a “dynamic and influential consumer market,” which affords Church's an excellent opportunity to cater to a diverse population eager for quality dining options. “We're showing up with a brand that's built for connection—big flavor, real value, and a spirit that brings people together,” he stated, reflecting the brand’s commitment to community and connection at its core.

The franchise agreement with Deke Shengtang is noteworthy not only because of the number of restaurants planned, but also because it represents Church's largest international development agreement to date. The two parties will work closely to ensure that the brand remains relevant while adapting to local tastes and preferences, mirroring the group’s success in other markets.

Tim Wadell, the Executive Vice President for International Business at Church's, echoed Gonzalez's sentiments about the partnership, emphasizing the “local expertise and ambition” of Deke Shengtang as a crucial asset. “China presents a significant opportunity, and together, we're building something designed to last, rooted in local relevance while staying true to who we are,” Wadell stated. This careful approach illustrates Church's intention of being deliberate and thoughtful in its market penetration strategy.

As Church's prepares for this significant move, further details regarding restaurant designs, specific locations, and future openings in China will be shared as the launch date approaches. The brand's rich history traces back to its founding in San Antonio, Texas, in 1952 by George W. Church Sr. Since then, it has grown to become one of the leading QSR chains worldwide, known for its Original and Spicy Chicken, freshly baked Honey-Butter Biscuits™, and a range of classic, home-style sides—all offered at exceptional value.

Today, Church's Texas Chicken® operates over 1,400 locations across 22 countries, boasting system-wide sales exceeding $1.5 billion. Recently owned by High Bluff Capital Partners and FS Investments since 2021, the brand celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2022, demonstrating decades of successful growth and adaptation.

For more information on the exciting developments as Church's Texas Chicken embarks on this journey, interested parties can visit its official websites at churchs.com and texaschicken.com for updates and franchising opportunities.