Slim Chickens inked multi-unit franchise agreements for 150 units in 2020 despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 global pandemic.
The agreements bring the fast casual chicken brand into several new markets across the U.S., including 12 units in Georgia, 23 units in Florida, 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,” Vice President of Franchise Development, Jackie Lobdell, said in a statement.
“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 Georgia and South Carolina, the brand partnered with Southeast Slims Hospitality LLC to open 12 new units. The first location is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2021.
Growth in 2021
Slim Chickens recently announced plans to open over 50 locations in 2021. As a part of their growth plan, the brand is currently seeking qualified and experienced multi-unit franchise groups to expand in Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Minnesota and Arizona.
In 2020, Slim Chickens opened 15 new restaurants, resulting in a total of 116 locations. The brand originally planned to open more 31 units last year – however expansion plans were slowed by COVID-19. The brand ultimately hopes to have 600 total units by the year 2030.
Slim Chickens has a Southern-inspired menu that offers buttermilk-marinated chicken tenders made to order with a choice of 17 individually portioned dipping sauces, sandwiches, wings, chicken and waffles and wraps.
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