Slim Chickens to Break into Florida Market in the Spring

PANAMA CITY, Fla. — Slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise which features dine-in and drive-through in the “better chicken” segment, announced today that its first location in the Sunshine State will open in the spring. The forthcoming restaurant, which will be located at 300 W. 23rd St. in Panama City, comes out of the brand’s recent 10-unit franchise agreement covering the Florida Panhandle. There will also be a location coming to the Callaway area.

Chris and Amy McMillan, along with business partners Richard Maddox, Adam Cantrell and Becky Retherford, are bringing Slim Chickens to the region and are all local business owners in Panama City. As multi-unit franchisees with a leading fast food drive-in restaurant, the McMillans are restaurant industry veterans with nearly 20 years of restaurant operations experience.

“Slim Chickens has incredible momentum behind it – the brand is red hot. Now is the time to franchise with the brand,” said Chris McMillan, co-owner of the new restaurants. “We truly believe in Slim Chickens and are thrilled to show new customers in Florida what the excitement is all about. With its touch of southern hospitality and broad menu, we know it’s going to be a hit.”

In addition to the forthcoming location in Panama City, the group plans to open in towns and cities across the Panhandle like Pensacola, Fort Walton, Callaway and others.

“The McMillans and their business partners are exactly the kind of franchisees we’re seeking as we expand into new markets,” said Jackie Lobdell, executive director of franchise development at Slim Chickens. “Their professional background in restaurant operations coupled with their local business expertise are what we look for as we sign franchisees across the country.”

The better-chicken brand has opened 100 locations across the United States, the United Kingdom and Kuwait, and is known for its passionate group of followers. With more than 350 units in development, the fast-growing brand is well on its way to reaching its goal of 600 restaurants.

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, which is broader than many in the segment, includes chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings and unique side items. Fans also resonate with the southern contemporary look and feel and the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

In July, Slim Chickens attracted an equity investment from 10 Point Capital, the private equity firm behind segment leader Tropical Smoothie Café.

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.

About Slim Chickens

Slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise which features dine-in and drive-through in the “better chicken” segment, opened in 2003 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Offering high-quality food with a focus on fresh, delicious ingredients, the brand prides itself on its southern flair and commitment to hospitality, all in a fast casual setting. Food is cooked to order, and the differentiated menu features chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings and unique side items, alongside 17 house-made dipping sauces.

Today, there are nearly 100 Slim Chickens locations open and 350 restaurants in development. The brand, which recently launched a strategic multi-unit franchise growth initiative to reach 600 units in 10 years, is targeting qualified and experienced multi-unit groups to develop in dynamic markets across the country.

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