A well-known restaurant franchise Dave’s Hot Chicken, renowned for its Nashville-style spicy chicken and backing from famous investors, has rapidly expanded despite its recent establishment in 2017 as a temporary dining option. In just a few years, the fledgling brand has surged ahead, aiming to launch hundreds of fresh outlets.
According to Restaurant Business Magazine, Dave’s Hot Chicken experienced remarkable success in 2023, with sales soaring almost 100%, as revealed by Technomic’s annual Top 500 Chain Restaurant Report. The swift expansion of the chain significantly contributed to this remarkable sales surge.
Dave’s Hot Chicken: What’s the New Plan?
Jim Bitticks, President of Dave’s Hot Chicken, informed the publication that the chain sees significant potential for growth in unconventional settings such as airports and transit hubs. Presently, Dave’s restaurants are established across 30 states, Washington, D.C., and a few international markets including Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
The company plans to open several new outlets in the coming weeks in Nampa, Idaho; Franconia, Va.; Apple Valley, Minn.; Chino Hills, Calif.; Pembroke Pines, Fla.; and Long Beach, Calif.
Moreover, Dave’s Hot Chicken aims to expand into South Korea and is in the final stages of negotiation for a deal that could introduce 50 locations in the United Kingdom starting this year. Those interested in tracking Dave’s expansion can visit the website for updates on upcoming store launches.
The Revamp and the Road Ahead
Dave’s Hot Chicken is just one of numerous chicken chains currently undergoing rapid expansion. Krispy Krunchy Chicken, after achieving a record-breaking milestone of 500 new openings in 2023, aims to surpass itself with plans to open 700 stores this year. Specializing in Cajun-spiced fried chicken, Krispy Krunchy Chicken operates quick-service outlets within convenience stores, truck stops, and various retailers.
Looking Ahead
Slim Chickens, recognized for its tender offerings, wings, sandwiches, and jar desserts, has over 1,200 new restaurants in the pipeline, with intentions to inaugurate more than 70 locations in 2024 alone. Additionally, Raising Cane’s, Pollo Campero, Wing Snob, and Bojangles are among the other chicken chains with substantial expansion strategies currently underway.
