Slim Chickens Inks 10-Unit Franchise Agreement in Dallas Metroplex

DALLAS — Slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise which features dine-in and drive-thru in the “better chicken” segment, announced today that it has signed a multi-unit deal with franchisee Ray Johnson to develop 10 restaurants across Collin and Denton counties. The first location is slated to open in 2021. Johnson is pursuing sites in lively towns like Highland Village, Flower Mound and Bartonville, to name a few. There are seven thriving Slim Chickens restaurants open today in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.

“I’ve been in the restaurant business for decades, and after divesting my previous concept I quickly began pursuing Slim Chickens. The concept is so strong, from its menu to its branding and design, it’s the whole package,” said Johnson. “It’s rare for a brand of this quality to have attractive greenspace available for multi-unit development. We’re happy we signed when we did and are excited to bring the concept to our neighbors across Collin and Denton counties.”

An experienced restaurant operator, Johnson formerly owned over half-a-dozen units of the nation’s leading fast-food chain for 15 years in Arkansas. Johnson is opening the Slim Chickens restaurants alongside his wife Ginger and daughters Mindy and Sydney. He and his wife, who are accomplished entrepreneurs and passionate equestrians, moved to the Dallas area to launch an innovative equine pharmaceutical company.

“Ray and his family are very passionate entrepreneurs and experienced franchisees—their drive and commitment to excellence is what we seek in our multi-unit franchise partners,” said Jackie Lobdell, vice president of franchise development at Slim Chickens. “Today, we have top-tier markets available, and with booming sales and interest from multi-unit groups, operators like Ray understand that the time to act is now.”

Since February 2020, the brand has inked eight multi-unit agreements representing 49 new franchise restaurants. The deals, all signed with experienced franchisees and groups, are set to bring Slim Chickens restaurants to key markets across the country, including several cities throughout Alabama and southern Tennessee; Dallas; Cleveland; and cities throughout Montana.

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 400 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.

Last year, 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, Slim Chickens has opened 100 restaurants and has over 400 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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