Bojangles, the iconic restaurant chain known for its craveable breakfast and Southern-style chicken, biscuits and tea, is entering 2026 with strong momentum following a wave of restaurant openings across the country. In 2025, the brand opened 43 new restaurants nationwide, including 14 corporate locations. Recent openings span Nevada, Texas, Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, New Jersey, Missouri and Mississippi, furthering its mission to bring bold Southern flavors to guests across the country.
“We closed 2025 with an average of one new restaurant opening per week, resulting in one of the strongest growth years in our history,” said Brooks Speirs, Vice President of Franchise Sales at Bojangles. “That momentum carries into 2026 as we continue investing in both franchise and corporate growth. Breakfast remains a cornerstone of our business, representing approximately 30% of sales before 11 a.m., and it continues to resonate with guests nationwide as we expand into new markets.”
The 2025 openings mark a significant milestone in Bojangles’ nationwide growth strategy. The brand ended the year with 864 total restaurants systemwide, including 588 franchise locations and 276 corporate-owned restaurants, underscoring Bojangles’ unique ability to scale through a balanced ownership model. Corporate ownership and continued corporate openings allow the brand to test, refine and support operational excellence as it grows alongside franchise partners.
Looking ahead to 2026, Bojangles is set to enter the Kansas City market, with leases already in place for three new restaurants. In 2025, the brand expanded its development pipeline, securing 154 planned locations across San Antonio, Ohio, New Jersey and Dallas. Additional openings are planned in New York, Nevada, New Jersey, Texas, Florida, Michigan and Arizona, signaling sustained expansion as the new year gets underway.
“As we continue to expand in 2026, our focus remains on partnering with experienced operators while also strategically growing our corporate footprint,” added Speirs. “Maintaining a strong corporate presence allows us to innovate, support franchisees more effectively and stay closely connected to our guests as we introduce Bojangles to new communities.”
For over 45 years, Bojangles has been a staple in the Southeast, offering iconic menu items such as hand-breaded fried chicken, fresh-baked buttermilk biscuits and mouthwatering breakfast served all day. As Bojangles accelerates its expansion, the brand is focused on partnering with seasoned franchise owners and restaurant operators to grow its footprint in new and emerging markets. Individuals interested in franchising with Bojangles should possess strong financial capacity, relevant business or restaurant experience, a sophisticated professional background, and the ability to open at least three locations in their market.
To learn more about Bojangles, visit bojangles.com. For more information about Bojangles franchising, visit www.bojanglesfranchising.com
