Southern Classic Chicken has launched a franchise opportunity for the first time in the quick service chicken brand’s 30-year history.
The chain plans to expand across the South, beginning with Texas. Southern Classic Chicken has two corporate-owned Texas locations already, with hopes to add 20 new franchise-owned restaurants in the Dallas area.
"We are no strangers to the franchising space and have worked with many national and international brands," said Tom O'Keefe, Managing Director. O’Keefe has more than 30 years of experience as a franchise attorney and has held executive roles with Popeyes, Church’s Chicken, Ruth Chris Steak House and Anytime Fitness.
"What we saw in Southern Classic Chicken was unlike anything else out there. We joined forces to help the brand grow because of its culture, quality and incredible value. Adding super compelling unit-level economics to those other components leaves us very confident that this franchise opportunity will be well received and pursued."
Southern Classic Chicken is looking for franchisees that align with its family-focused culture, targeting Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas in the first wave of expansion.
The chain is not the only quick service chicken restaurant with plans for expansion. Filipino chain Jollibee recently set a goal to open 300 North American locations by 2024.
Focus on off-premises dining
Southern Classic Chicken had a highly successful 2020 – which can largely be attributed to an innovative restaurant design focused on serving walk-up and drive-thru customers. This helped customers receive their meals in a quick and safe manner during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"With such an incredible value, we have seen sales continue to prosper despite the pandemic because it's an affordable option that can feed the whole family. In fact, in 2020, Southern Classic Chicken's system-wide sales have increased more than 20% on drive-thru sales alone,” said Nick Binnings, Director of Brand Development.
The chain’s menu features home-style fried chicken alongside fresh side offerings inspired by its southern roots. It was founded in 1989 in Shreveport, Louisiana.
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