FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise which features dine-in and drive-through in the “better chicken” segment, announced today that is was ranked on this year’s Franchise Times Top 200+ list, the most comprehensive ranking of the 500 largest franchise systems in the United States. The distinguished ranking is based on Slim Chickens’ global system sales and number of locations. Slim Chickens joins the most reputable brands in the nation on the list.
The acknowledgement of being named to this ranking verifies the exceptional growth the company has experienced in the past year. Slim Chickens, which is the second fastest growing chicken franchise, jumped 22 spots on the Top 200+ due to booming sales growth of 25.5% over last year. In 2020 alone, the brand has inked agreements for nearly 100 units with some of the nation’s foremost franchise groups.
“The momentum behind our brand is stronger than ever and our ranking on this esteemed list reflects that,” said Jackie Lobdell, vice president of franchise development at Slim Chickens. “As we continue to execute against our aggressive multi-unit franchising strategy, we’re eager to grow our footprint further and see more expansion in the year ahead!”
Franchise Times uses a combination of companies’ voluntary reports and the most recent franchise disclosure documents to rank the 500 largest franchise systems in the United States. To qualify for the ranking, companies must be a legal United States franchise, with its headquarters based in the United States or at least 10 percent of their total units located in the country. Franchisees must also own at least 15 percent of the company’s total units.
Slim Chickens has opened over 110 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.
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.