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December 7, 2021

Which brands have the strongest unit-economics with the potential for global growth? Signs point to Slim Chickens as the leading contender

October 6, 2022

So what makes Slim Chickens an attractive investment?

International expansion efforts

Slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise, is best known for its craveable food and southern hospitality vibes. The brand is growing its presence across the globe, particularly throughout the U.K. and Europe. In recent years, Slim Chickens has opened 27 international locations as part of a 200-unit development deal with the Boparan Restaurant Group — seasoned operators that are continuing to lead the brand’s international developments in the U.K.

“The growth we have seen across the U.S. and U.K. has been phenomenal. People are obsessing over our chicken, and that’s evident through our increasing same-store sales growth year over year,” says Sam Rothschild, chief operations officer at Slim Chickens. “Given the emphasis we put on our extensive support and lucrative business model, we know that multi-unit operators are well equipped to grow Slim Chickens in whichever community they choose.”

In July 2022 alone, Slim Chickens opened four locations across the U.K. including Liverpool, Bishopsgate, Milton Keynes and Leicester High Cross – all of which were spearheaded by the Boparan Restaurant Group.

“We are extremely thankful for our partnership with Boparan Restaurant group, and all of their sub-franchisees— they have helped our growth immensely. As we continue to prioritize both national and international growth, we are actively seeking dedicated operators with a passion for the brand like Boparan Restaurant Group,” says Jackie Lobdell, vice president of franchise development at Slim Chickens.

Domestic development efforts

Slim Chickens’ expansion in the U.S. dates back to 2003. Since then, the brand has gone from operating out of an Arkansas garage to one of the fastest-growing brands in the chicken segment. With an outstanding AUV of $3,864,513* and a robust franchise development pipeline, contending concepts across the U.S. are racing to keep up with Slim Chickens’ development.

Slim Chickens has entered more than 30 states since its inception and is generating impressive sales across the board. Specifically, Slim Chickens saw a 25 per cent comp store sales growth last year, with a 43.5% increase in comp sales growth over the last four years. Likewise, the brand’s impressive 3.8 million* AUV indicates a 13.6 per cent increase year over year.

In 2022 thus far, Slim Chickens signed more than 120 new franchise agreements, bringing the total units in development to over 1,100 restaurants. This year, the brand also opened more than 30 locations in 11 new territories, all of which are driving strong unit economics.

Seasoned multi-unit operators

As part of its rapid development efforts, Slim Chickens has a strategic multi-unit franchise growth initiative to reach 600 open units in the next five to seven years, targeting qualified and experienced multiunit operators to develop in dynamic markets worldwide.

From international operators like the Boparan Restaurant Group to experienced multi-brand franchisees across the U.S., Slim Chickens is recognized for appealing to the most sophisticated and experienced restauranteurs with the means to diversify.

“As a multi-unit owner of several restaurant franchise concepts, including Arby’s, I wanted to expand my portfolio with a brand that had significant opportunity for development in attractive markets. Slim Chickens is a uniquely cool brand with so much growth potential, and it provides me with the opportunity to diversify and tap into the growing chicken tender market,” says David Giesen, a multi-unit restaurant owner in Ohio.

Extensive franchisee support

From world-class training and national marketing initiatives to all-encompassing operations support, franchisee assistance starts from the moment a contract is signed. The brand’s accomplished executive team is perfectly aligned with the franchise system to ensure the success and satisfaction of each franchise partner.

Take it from Mike Sartwell, a multi-unit franchisee who owns locations in Montana and North Dakota.

“Our opening was massive, bigger than anything I’ve experienced before — and I’ve been in the industry for a while,” Sartwell says. “But it wasn’t the incredible preparation from the Slim Chickens corporate team that surprised me. It was when they committed more of their time and more of their people to our location beyond opening week to help us get through the surge. Not every brand is that dedicated to helping their franchisees weather a storm — especially when the storm is technically a good one!”

Unmatched menu and atmosphere

One of the key differentiators people consider when choosing the right chicken brand is the food. Slim Chickens prides itself on serving the highest-quality, hand-breaded chicken tenders, craft sandwiches and perfectly fried wings. The standout menu — also offering 17 house-made dipping sauces and delectable jar desserts — appeals to a diverse range of guests who become loyal brand enthusiasts.

A Southern flair and commitment to impeccable hospitality further elevate the dining experience between guests and restaurant staff. Moreover, Slim Chickens promotes a welcoming environment and community culture, adding to the brand’s friendly vibe.

Incredible brand recognition

This year, Slim Chickens has been recognized by numerous restaurant and franchise trade publications including QSR Magazine for being a ‘Breakout Brand of the Year’ and a ‘Top Recession-Proof Business’ by Franchise Business Review.

Slim Chickens’ momentum confirms that the brand’s road to success isn’t ending any time soon. From its strong brand reputation in the chicken segment to its global presence, Slim Chickens is expected to continue driving exponential growth in the coming years.

For more information about franchising with Slim Chickens, visit www. slimchickensfranchise.com/get-started.

*AUV of Group #1 in the 2022 FDD Item 19

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