#USA #Atlanta #Franchise Growth #Chicken Salad Chick #Southern Cuisine

Chicken Salad Chick: A Landmark Year in 2024

2024 has proven to be a landmark year for Chicken Salad Chick, a brand that specializes in Southern-style chicken salad. The franchise has not only solidified its presence but has also achieved unprecedented growth figures that set new benchmarks in the fast-casual dining industry. This essay delves into the brand's remarkable journey through the past year, highlighting key milestones, franchisee engagement, and future aspirations.

Breaking Records with Franchise Deals

The metrics speak for themselves: Chicken Salad Chick secured a staggering 88 new restaurant deals in 2024, representing a significant 60% increase compared to the previous year. This expansion has elevated the total number of restaurants to 288, spanning across 20 states. The brand's trajectory is particularly impressive considering that it has doubled in size within a mere five years.

A major factor contributing to this rapid growth has been the commitment of existing franchisees. In 2024, 12 groups of franchisees opted to reinvest in the brand by signing on for an additional 27 restaurant locations. This kind of reinvestment indicates a robust confidence in Chicken Salad Chick's business model and its sustained appeal in the market. The endorsement from franchisees is a clear sign of their determination to not only grow their own businesses but also to enrich communities by bringing flavorful chicken salad to a wider audience.

Attracting Diverse Franchisee Groups

The growth trajectory has also attracted interest from multi-concept franchise owners, further diversifying Chicken Salad Chick’s franchisee landscape. Mark Verges, Vice President of Franchise Development, remarked, "The addition of large multi-concept operators to our portfolio shows the undeniable strength of our brand. When existing franchisees double down on their investments, it's a testament to their enthusiastic commitment to our mission of spreading joy and serving others."

Such confidence in Chicken Salad Chick’s operations echoes throughout the franchise community, suggesting that many are looking to leverage their ownership into lasting legacies for decades ahead. The streamlined operations and profitability offered by Chicken Salad Chick are being recognized as key advantages for franchisees, enhancing the brand's marketplace position.

Recognition and Awards

Chicken Salad Chick's accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. The franchise has been recognized by QSR Magazine as one of the Best Franchise Deals for four consecutive years. Additionally, it ranked #3 in Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers and Shakers and ranked 177th on Franchise Times' Top 400 list for 2024. These accolades validate the brand's successful strategies and its appeal to both customers and franchisees alike.

Forward-Looking Aspirations

Looking ahead, Chicken Salad Chick is keen to capitalize on the momentum established in 2024. The brand has identified a strategic growth plan for 2025, focusing on states with promising economic potential such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, and West Virginia. By continuing to deliver benevolent hospitality and fresh food offerings to new markets, Chicken Salad Chick aims for a 13% increase in unit count year-over-year. Furthermore, their system-wide sales exceeded $353 million, marking a 38% rise from 2021, while achieving a record-setting average unit volume (AUV) of $1.5 million.

About Chicken Salad Chick

Founded in 2008 by Stacy and Kevin Brown in Auburn, Alabama, Chicken Salad Chick has become synonymous with quality and authenticity in the fast-casual dining scene. The menu features various chicken salad flavors and culinary delights, catering to diverse palates. Under the stewardship of Scott Deviney and the Atlanta-based Chick team, the company thrives on innovation, purpose-driven growth, and a commitment to serving fresh, homemade food.

In summary, the achievements of Chicken Salad Chick in 2024 underscore the brand's effective business model, the loyalty of franchisees, and the promising outlook for future expansion. For more information about franchising opportunities, visit Chicken Salad Chick.