From BIG Flavor to BIG Honors: Coby Jones Named Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association

By: Big Chicken | 0 Shares 84 Reads

March 03, 2025 // Franchising.com // LUBBOCK, Texas. – Just like Big Chicken Founder Shaquille O’Neal’s MVP-winning season in 2000, franchisee Coby Jones’s dedication to BIG Flavor, even BIGGER hospitality and championship-level guest experiences earned him a ticket into franchising’s Hall of Fame.

Jones, recently inducted into the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) “Franchisee of the Year” class for 2025, quickly made a name for himself within Big Chicken’s franchise system by hitting the ground running with the playbook given to him. His active engagement in the Lubbock community and exceptional leadership with his team at the local level contribute to his location’s outstanding record.

“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized by the IFA alongside such an amazing group of franchisees,” said Jones. “From day one, my goal has been to bring BIG Flavor and BIG Fun to Lubbock, and the journey has been nothing short of incredible. The support from the Big Chicken team, along with the love from the people of Lubbock, has all made this experience truly special. I’m excited to keep pushing boundaries and growing with Big Chicken in the years ahead.”

Since the opening of his first Big Chicken location in August 2024, Jones has made an immediate and lasting impact on the brand. He was one of the first franchisees to introduce self-order kiosks, streamlining the guest experience.

Beyond operational achievements, Jones has strengthened Big Chicken’s connection with the Lubbock community through groundbreaking partnerships, including launching the brand’s first NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) initiative with Texas Tech basketball athletes.

“I couldn’t be more fired up to know that Coby was chosen to receive this well-deserved honor. At Big Chicken, we don’t just talk about BIG opportunities – we create them,” remarked Josh Halpern, CEO of Big Chicken. “Coby is living proof of what that looks like in action. He’s built a strong foundation for his business, endeavored to lift up his fellow franchisees and become an integral part of the Lubbock community. He’s exactly the kind of leader we look for. Congratulations brother.”

SOURCE Big Chicken

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