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Slim Chickens’ Ambitious Growth Plans are Coming True

7/05/2024 

Slim Chickens closed 2023 breaking records, opening 53 units and flying into 2024 with a stack of development deals under its wing. In 2024, the brand plans to open more than 70 new stores and has north of 1,200 coming down the pipeline.

The made-to-order chicken concept is hitting an upsurge, experiencing 70 percent restaurant growth in the past three years, amassing to 270-plus locations and 10 new territories, including the world’s largest airport in Istanbul, Turkey; Germany; and U.S. states like Indiana, Wisconsin, and Nevada.

From a sales perspective, the brand is pulling in AUVs of 3.8 million*, and same-store sales have grown 40 percent in the past four years.

Amid all this expansion, the brand’s commitment to serving quality, fresh food with sincere customer service hasn’t wavered. Senior VP of operations Christina Vaughan believes this is the unlock of Slim’s success.

“Our freshly cooked food and variety of sauces are foundational to us, but then you throw in this special magic of Southern hospitality in the mix,” Vaughan says. “It’s really driving our guests and franchisees, creating great AUVs … They resonate with how we think about bringing people together for meals.”

She points to the brand’s ability to craft a high-touch experience for guests, starting with a warm greeting and ending with a sincere “thank you.” As Slim Chickens has diversified its guest experience throughout the years—driving traffic into third-party or drive-thru channels—it has remained true in its belief to be a community-centric restaurant.

“Our intention is to allow guests to have a high-touch opportunity no matter what channel they come through. I think even as we think about our new technology, we still know that Southern hospitality will lead the way for us,” Vaughan says. “We encourage building a community around our restaurant in both our corporate and franchise locations.”

Slim Chickens is playing in a red-hot market where the war over chicken continues. Vaughan says the brand’s focus on enticing new customers and elevating loyal ones keeps it competitive. The company remains at the forefront of innovation with a high-tech stack of kiosks, a curated app, and the development of AI at the drive-thru.

“We make sure we’re ahead of the curve when it comes to advances that make it easier for our employees. We believe in giving our employees a great experience, who in turn do the same for our guests,” Vaughan adds. “We’re always testing new technology and equipment pieces that will make our employees’ lives better.”

While some may see technology as a barrier to interacting with guests, Vaughan says Slims is using the rollouts to improve the guest experience by allowing them to order at their own pace and take their time viewing the entire menu, which is broader than most chicken-orientated fast-casual restaurants. She views kiosks and digital confirmation boards as a complement to Southern hospitality, not a competitor.

“I believe our guests can have a frictionless encounter with us, through the drive-thru, in-store pickup, or third party. We want to make sure they can order easier with us still providing accurate and consistent food,” Vaughan adds. “There’s no doubt we’re harnessing guests who want to be more tech-savvy, but retaining those who don’t.”

Existing franchised units will have individualized installation plans tailored to their current layout and facilities, whereas new openings will automatically feature digital kiosks and confirmation boards. Vaughan has already seen higher check averages and reduced equipment and labor costs as a result of the rollout.

“We are franchise-focused right now, and our goal is to reach 1,000 units,” Vaughan says. “As long as we continue to bring franchisees on board with multi-unit experience from other brands, a belief in our mission, and a people-first culture, we can continue to provide mouthwatering chicken and a successful opportunity to grow with not just our restaurants but the people we serve, too.”

Read the full story in QSR Magazine here- LINK

Slim Chickens Opens New Restaurant in Davenport

6/20/2024

Slim Chickens announced its new restaurant opening at 1229 Finley Ave, Davenport, Florida 33853. Reputable multi-unit operating group, Florida’s Best Chicken, is spearheading the opening.

The better-chicken brand has opened more than 270 locations across the United States, United Kingdom, and Turkey. The brand is known and loved for its hand-breaded, cook-to-order tenders and passionate group of followers within the markets it operates. With more than 1,100 locations in development, the brand’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

“We are thrilled to bring our southern hospitality and quality cooked-to-order chicken tenders to the community in Davenport,” says Jackie Lobdell, Vice President of Franchise Development at Slim Chickens. “Congratulations to our passionate and dedicated multi-unit operator, Florida’s Best Chicken on opening their fourth store. Multi-unit operators like Florida’s Best Chicken who are just as dedicated to sharing our name and quality food with more members of the community are who we continue to seek as we grow our following in the U.S. and overseas.”

The brand prides itself on its cooked-to-order fresh food and strong devoted fanbase, also known as “Slimthusiasts.” Slim Chickens has distinguished itself in the “better-chicken” segment by offering high-quality food and 14  house-made dipping sauces, allowing customers to enjoy a different flavor profile with each visit. Its menu is broader than many in the segment, 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, as well as the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

“As we continue to grow across the United States and globally, each location we open signifies the success in the service and support systems we have created for Slim Chickens franchisees,” says Sam Rothschild, COO of Slim Chickens. “We are honored on behalf of the people who have enabled us to be the brand we are today and who continue to share southern hospitality and fresh, delicious chicken to new communities across the globe. There are a lot of opportunities domestically and internationally, and we are eager to bring on and support multi-unit restaurant operators like Florida’s Best Chicken and celebrate their continued success.”

The better-chicken brand has experienced a 70% restaurant growth over the last three years, equaling over 270 opened locations today. The brand has also seen a nearly 40% increase in same-store sales over the last four years and has reached an impressive AUV of $3.8 million*. Over the last five years, Slim Chickens has experienced substantial development growth, with over 1,100 signed agreements in the pipeline. Slim Chickens is targeting several national markets including Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Connecticut as well as overseas in Europe, Asia, the GCC, and beyond.

Slim Chickens’ franchise opportunity differentiates itself with prime markets available for multi-unit development, a passionate leadership team, and a world-class franchisee support system. As Slim Chickens expands, it is awarding franchise opportunities to qualified, experienced, and passionate multi-unit groups looking to add a dynamic segment to their portfolio.

Slim Chickens Opens New Restaurant in Davenport

6/20/2024

Slim Chickens announced its new restaurant opening at 1229 Finley Ave, Davenport, Florida 33853. Reputable multi-unit operating group, Florida’s Best Chicken, is spearheading the opening.

The better-chicken brand has opened more than 270 locations across the United States, United Kingdom, and Turkey. The brand is known and loved for its hand-breaded, cook-to-order tenders and passionate group of followers within the markets it operates. With more than 1,100 locations in development, the brand’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

“We are thrilled to bring our southern hospitality and quality cooked-to-order chicken tenders to the community in Davenport,” says Jackie Lobdell, Vice President of Franchise Development at Slim Chickens. “Congratulations to our passionate and dedicated multi-unit operator, Florida’s Best Chicken on opening their fourth store. Multi-unit operators like Florida’s Best Chicken who are just as dedicated to sharing our name and quality food with more members of the community are who we continue to seek as we grow our following in the U.S. and overseas.”

The brand prides itself on its cooked-to-order fresh food and strong devoted fanbase, also known as “Slimthusiasts.” Slim Chickens has distinguished itself in the “better-chicken” segment by offering high-quality food and 14  house-made dipping sauces, allowing customers to enjoy a different flavor profile with each visit. Its menu is broader than many in the segment, 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, as well as the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

“As we continue to grow across the United States and globally, each location we open signifies the success in the service and support systems we have created for Slim Chickens franchisees,” says Sam Rothschild, COO of Slim Chickens. “We are honored on behalf of the people who have enabled us to be the brand we are today and who continue to share southern hospitality and fresh, delicious chicken to new communities across the globe. There are a lot of opportunities domestically and internationally, and we are eager to bring on and support multi-unit restaurant operators like Florida’s Best Chicken and celebrate their continued success.”

The better-chicken brand has experienced a 70% restaurant growth over the last three years, equaling over 270 opened locations today. The brand has also seen a nearly 40% increase in same-store sales over the last four years and has reached an impressive AUV of $3.8 million*. Over the last five years, Slim Chickens has experienced substantial development growth, with over 1,100 signed agreements in the pipeline. Slim Chickens is targeting several national markets including Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Connecticut as well as overseas in Europe, Asia, the GCC, and beyond.

Slim Chickens’ franchise opportunity differentiates itself with prime markets available for multi-unit development, a passionate leadership team, and a world-class franchisee support system. As Slim Chickens expands, it is awarding franchise opportunities to qualified, experienced, and passionate multi-unit groups looking to add a dynamic segment to their portfolio.

Read the full story in QSR Magazine here- LINK

Read the full ranking of Nation’s Restaurant New 2024 Top 500 restaurants here- LINK 

Slim Chickens Signs 20-Unit Deal to Grow in Germany

5/01/2024 

Slim Chickens announced a significant milestone in its international expansion. BRG with Foodelity Group has signed a 20-location development plan in Germany.

Spearheading Slims into Germany, Foodelity Group is a sub-franchisee of Boparan Restaurant Group which currently operates 51 stores across the UK and Turkey, with its latest opening in Bromley. The established multi-unit operator has several international franchises under its portfolio and plans to continue its expansion with Slim Chickens.

“We are really pleased to be working with Foodelity Group,” says Satnam Leihal, CEO of BRG. “Over the past several months, we have developed a deep partnership, and we look forward to supporting the growth of the Slim Chickens brand across Germany.”

The better-chicken brand has opened more than 265 locations across the United States, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. With more than 1,100 locations in development, the brand’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

“I’m excited to be bringing fresh, delicious chicken to Berlin and beyond,” says Max Beautler, CEO of the Foodelity Group. “I have been thoroughly impressed with the food quality, standards, and service that Slim Chickens UK delivers day in and day out. It’s a brand I love, and our team has been training in the UK for months to ensure that we can offer chicken lovers in Berlin the same fresh, delicious experience. We look forward to opening our first site soon.”

The brand prides itself on its cooked-to-order fresh food and strong devoted fanbase, also known as “Slimthusiasts.” 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 segment, 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, as well as the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

“We have developed a great partnership with Boparan Restaurant Group collaborating with our knowledge, capabilities, and support that now enables Slim Chickens to initiate a relationship with Foodelity,” says Sam Rothschild, COO of Slim Chickens. “We are thrilled to introduce Slims quality food and hospitality that will drive Slim Chickens as an exceptional fast-casual chicken brand across Germany and beyond.”

Slim Chickens has experienced a 70 percent restaurant growth over the last three years, equaling over 265 opened locations today. Over the last five years, Slim Chickens has experienced substantial development growth, with over 1,100 signed agreements in the pipeline. Slim Chickens is targeting several national markets including Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York, Massachusetts as well as overseas in Europe, the GCC, Asia, and beyond.”

The Slim Chickens franchise opportunity differentiates itself with prime markets available for multi-unit development, a passionate leadership team and world-class franchisee support system. As Slim Chickens expands, it is awarding franchise opportunities to qualified, experienced, and passionate multi-unit groups looking to add a dynamic segment to their portfolio.

Read the full story on QSR Magazine- HERE

Slim Chickens Announces Opening in Northwest Arkansas National Airport

3/11/2024

Slim Chickens announced its new restaurant opening in the Northwest Arkansas National Airport. Spearheaded by Northwest Arkansas Native and established operator of Philip Enterprises, this is the group’s first Slims opening.

The better-chicken brand has opened more than 255 locations across the United States and the United Kingdom. The brand is known and loved for its hand-breaded, cooked-to-order tenders and passionate group of followers within the markets it operates. With more than 1,200 locations in development, the brand’s momentum continues to prove its stronghold in its segment.

“We are thrilled to share our mouthwatering chicken tenders with even more members of the community throughout Northwest Arkansas,” says Jackie Lobdell, Vice President of Franchise Development at Slim Chickens. “The XNA airport is the perfect fit for Slim Chickens as we grow our reputation with busy professionals, families, and university students and are grateful for the reputable operating group, Philip Enterprises for spearheading the location.”

The brand prides itself on its cooked-to-order fresh food and strong devoted fanbase, also known as “Slimthusiasts.” 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 segment, 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, as well as the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

“We are thrilled to introduce our southern atmosphere and cooked-to-order chicken tenders at the XNA Airport. As we continue to extend our presence and original quality recipe across the United States and globally, each location we open signifies the success in the service and support systems we have created for Slim Chickens franchisees,” says Sam Rothschild, COO of Slim Chickens. “We are so thankful for operators like Philip Enterprises who are dedicated to sharing our name with more members of the community.”

Slim Chickens’ franchise opportunity differentiates itself with prime markets available for multi-unit development, a passionate leadership team and world-class franchisee support system. As Slim Chickens expands, it is awarding franchise opportunities to qualified, experienced and passionate multi-unit groups looking to add a dynamic segment to their portfolio.

Slim Chickens has experienced a 60 percent restaurant growth over the last two years, equaling over 250 opened locations today. The brand has also reached an impressive $3,864,513. Over the last five years, Slim Chickens has experienced substantial development growth, with over 1,200 signed agreements in the pipeline. Slim Chickens is targeting several national markets including Ohio, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York, and Massachusetts as well as overseas in the United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkey, and the GCC.

Read the full story here- LINK