Chick N Max – a next generation fast casual franchise specializing in almond wood smoked chicken and wings, chef-crafted sandwiches, and fried tenders – recently landed at the top of the Wichita Business Journal’s 2024 fastest-growing companies list. The burgeoning brand secured the top spot in the annual ranking with revenue growth of 89.5% last year.
“We’re absolutely honored to be ranked among an impressive list of incredible and established companies,” says Chick N Max founder and CEO Max Sheets. “While we’re thrilled to be recognized for our continued growth, what really inspires us is the opportunity to continue spreading joy, enriching lives, and serving others as Chick N Max expands across new and existing markets throughout the country.”
In 2023, Chick N Max doubled its brand footprint by opening its very first three franchise locations in Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Willis, Texas; and Wichita, Kansas. Today, there are six restaurants open and operating across three states, and an active pipeline that stands at more than 50 restaurants. Looking ahead, the company expects to open as many as 3-5 new restaurants this year and at least that many each year thereafter.
In an interview for the publication’s cover story, Sheets told the Wichita Business Journal that he mainly attributes Chick N Max’s success to his competent employees. He specifically highlighted senior vice president Brenda Elpers’ impact in creating a shift in strategies, hourly cook-turned-operations manager Anthony Broadnax’s eye for internal hiring, Cathy Carrier’s success with the company’s catering division, and Lindsay Mayhew’s efforts in pioneering staff training modules.
“This ranking could not be possible without our dedicated staff and franchisees who have helped build Chick N Max into the company it is today,” added Sheets.
He also emphasized Chick N Max’s maturity from a “do you like it original or spicy” fast-food chain to a more diverse and sophisticated experience since launching in 2018.
Today, Chick N Max offers a unique culinary experience with its 10 unique flavors of chef-crafted sandwiches, made with almond wood smoked pulled chicken or crispy golden fried tenders. The almond-wood smoked chicken, a flavor profile unique to the entire industry, can also meet the needs of a more health-conscious diner when served as smoked leg quarters, breast quarters, half-birds, or smoked wings. Guests can complete their meal with a range of 10 homestyle sides including fries, onion rings, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and smoked white beans, and 11 sauces that are made daily to ensure the highest quality and taste.
