Breakthrough Brand Experiences Explosive Growth in 2020

By: Slim Chickens | 1 Shares 575 Reads

Slim Chickens Inks Agreements for 150 Units, Achieving a Major Growth Milestone

December 29, 2020 // Franchising.com // FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Slim Chickens is closing out 2020 with a bang: the brand has inked multi-unit franchise agreements for 150 units this year.

In what was a precarious 12 months for the restaurant sector, Slim Chickens has proven itself to be a brand with incredible staying power and a top-pick for the nation’s most experienced franchise groups. Notably, Slim Chickens signed multi-unit agreements that will bring the brand into new markets across the country. Some of the more notable deals include agreements for 12 units in Georgia, 23 units in Tampa, 10 units in New Mexico and 22 units in North Carolina.

“This year has been a whirlwind. We kicked things off in January stronger than ever and with more momentum behind us than any other brand in the segment. Of course, things changed in March, but we were able to quickly pivot and support franchisees, and within four weeks our year-over-year sales were up systemwide. This showed prospects that Slim Chickens was the right choice for their portfolio long-term,” said Vice President of Franchise Development, Jackie Lobdell. “Now, we’re closing our most successful year ever in terms of franchise sales and have nothing but excitement as we look to continued growth in 2021.”

In addition to the brand’s impressive franchise development pipeline, they have also opened their 116th location. Slim Chickens was able to open 15 restaurants in 2020 and has plans to open over 50 locations next year. In addition to bringing on new high-quality franchisees, Slim Chickens has also had several current franchisees expand their territories, which speaks to the strength of the brand.

The brand’s growth in 2020 establishes its position as one of the fast-casual sector’s fastest-growing and strongest brands. As Slim Chickens continues to prioritize growth in 2021, the brand is seeking qualified and experienced multi-unit franchise groups to expand across the county into markets such as Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Minnesota and Arizona.

With hundreds of thousands of happy customers, the brand has developed a strong devoted fanbase, also known as “Slimthusiasts,” helping to fuel demand for the hand-breaded, cooked-to-order tenders. Slim Chickens has distinguished itself in the “better chicken” segment by offering high-quality food and 17 house-made dipping sauces, allowing customers to enjoy a different flavor profile with each visit. Its menu is broader than many in the category, offering chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings and unique side items. Fans also resonate with the southern contemporary look and feel and the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

SOURCE Slim Chickens

###