Chicken Salad Chick announced the appointment of Mark Verges as new Vice President of Franchise Development.
With over 20 years of experience in the franchising industry, Verges is an accomplished development executive, with expertise in business revenue expansion, company development, and quick-service franchising operations at every level. Most recently, he was the Director of Franchise and Restaurant Location Development at Ballard Brands, parent of PJ’s Coffee New Orleans. During this time, he oversaw franchise location development, capex projects, brand expansion, and real estate for nearly 250 franchised units and licensed concepts. Verges brings his proven track record of business and people growth through expert management, mentoring, and unsurpassed knowledge of the food service industry and the franchise industry to Chicken Salad Chick.
“Mark’s impressive track record with several franchise brands speaks volumes about his leadership and vision,” says Terry McKee, Chief Development Officer at Chicken Salad Chick. “His commitment to excellence aligns seamlessly with our values, and we look forward to his instrumental role in propelling Chicken Salad Chick to new heights in the fast-casual dining landscape.”
In his role, Verges will foster new and existing franchisee relationships, ensuring development schedules are met, and enhancing strategies around franchise recruitment. He will also focus on mentoring his teams and building upon the impressive growth momentum created by Chicken Salad Chick’s Support Center team.
“This brand is truly a unicorn in the restaurant space. Chicken Salad Chick serves up genuine smiles, has guests that are raving fans, and its main ingredient is southern-style chicken salad served from the heart,” says Mark Verges. “Along with zero competition, solid fundamentals, and impressive brand growth, the brand positioning resonated with me: gracious service, made from scratch food, fresh and healthy, comfortable, and community minded. I am humbled and excited to be part of this brand and look forward most to joining a purpose driven culture that strives daily to Spread Joy, Enrich Lives, and Serve Others.”
The brand continues to bring its gracious hospitality and fresh fare to new markets, seeing a 10 percent increase in unit count year-over-year. According to the 2023 FDD, in addition to this impressive growth, Chicken Salad Chick reported over $306.8 million in systemwide sales, a 20 percent increase over 2021 and grew to record-setting AUV.
