#United States #Atlanta #Chicken Salad Chick #Franchising #restaurant growth

Chicken Salad Chick Marks Impressive Growth with New Franchisees in the Atlantic Region

In a vibrant move, Chicken Salad Chick, the only fast-casual chicken salad restaurant franchise in the United States, is enhancing its presence across the Atlantic region with the onboarding of several new multi-unit franchisees. This exciting development includes expansion in key markets such as Virginia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, reflecting both the brand's success and the significant business opportunities in these areas.

Riding the Wave of Change in the Atlantic Region

Driven by a shared vision for community engagement, hospitality, and quality meals, the franchisees joining Chicken Salad Chick are eager to tap into the growing demand for fast-casual dining in suburban and urban settings. Specifically, these seasoned operators are poised to create a strong regional influence during a period when the Atlantic corridor is emerging as a dynamic hub for business growth in the country.

Several notable franchise partnerships have taken shape:

• - Casey and Matt Carter are spearheading growth in Morehead City, NC, a coastal area experiencing a spike in population and demand for locally-oriented dining experiences.
• - Devon Chamberlin, Patrick Cavanaugh, and Barry Chamberlin will oversee up to 12 locations in the rapidly developing counties of Northern Virginia, originally aiming for eight. This expansion is a response to the area's explosive growth.
• - Josh and Jared Moore are establishing a robust regional presence in central Virginia, where they are aligning with local economic trends that favor vibrant lunch-hour dining.
• - Jacob and Sabrina Longley are set to penetrate the Northeast market in Pittsburgh, focusing on an area rich in budding entrepreneurship and appealing lifestyle brands.
• - Jim Schleckser and Carrie Tydings are launching their expansion in the affluent suburbs of Montgomery County, MD, targeting a customer base known for high spending on premium dining options.
• - Hannah Hinson, with strong ties to her Maryland community, is passionately bringing Chicken Salad Chick to her region, embodying the family-centered values of the franchise.
• - Amanda and Ernest Greenford are set to accentuate their new location in Allentown, PA, targeting suburban families amid rapid economic revitalization.

Mark Verges, Vice President of Franchise Development at Chicken Salad Chick, stated, “With strong in-migration, suburban growth, and a deep-rooted appreciation for community-centered brands, the Atlantic region offers ideal conditions for franchise success.” This message underscores the franchise's commitment to expanding through exceptional operators who resonate with local communities and values.

Why the Atlantic Region?

The Atlantic corridor is notably one of the fastest-expanding franchise markets nationwide, with over 60% of the U.S. population located along the Eastern Seaboard. According to projections, franchise growth in the Mid-Atlantic area is expected to hit 3.4% in 2025. This upward trend is largely attributed to seasoned multi-unit operators recognizing Chicken Salad Chick's strong unit economics combined with lifestyle-friendly business hours and a community-first operational model.

Recognized as a leading franchise system, Chicken Salad Chick has consistently made its mark, earning accolades such as QSR magazine's Best Franchise Deals for four consecutive years. Additionally, it is ranked #3 in Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers & Shakers and placed 177th in Franchise Times’ Top 400 Rankings for 2024.

With continuous momentum from 2024, Chicken Salad Chick is on track to surpass previous records with new franchise deals across the country. They have pinpointed states including Pennsylvania, Ohio, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, and West Virginia as prime targets for future growth.

For aspiring business owners, Chicken Salad Chick represents a lucrative opportunity to bring their acclaimed hospitality and fresh culinary offerings to new markets. The franchise has reported a staggering 13% increase in unit count from the previous year, with system-wide sales exceeding $353 million, marking a 38% rise since 2021.

About Chicken Salad Chick

Founded in 2008 in Auburn, Alabama, by Stacy and Kevin Brown, Chicken Salad Chick has evolved from a local favorite to a franchise with over 305 locations across 22 states. The brand is dedicated to serving delightful Southern-style chicken salads made from scratch, alongside a variety of gourmet soups, side salads, and desserts. With a mission to deliver heartfelt service and flavorful meals, Chicken Salad Chick is committed to enhancing its footprint across America while cultivating lasting community relationships. To explore further franchise opportunities, visit Chicken Salad Chick's franchising page.