Dave’s Hot Chicken announced it has inked a franchise agreement with CW Strong Restaurant Group to bring 11 locations in San Jose and Santa Clara and 10 locations in Collin and Denton County.
“What first stood out to me is the quality of the product from Dave’s Hot Chicken. It’s simply second to none,” says Sam Wong, a spokesman for CW Strong Restaurant Group. “This is a young, hip brand with a bright future, and we wanted to get on the ground floor for the next big thing. We’re excited to bring Dave’s Hot Chicken to a new group of customers.”
As part of the deal, the group is looking to build on the brand’s momentum and continue its expansion throughout the country. Dave’s Hot Chicken works well in a variety of floor plans. The team is seeking endcaps with drive-thru infrastructure and a footprint of 2,000 to 2,500 square feet. Real estate developers in Collin and Denton County should contact Greg Bracchi of Edge RE Partners at (214) 545-6907 to review available space. Developers in San Jose and Santa Clara should contact Solomon Ets-Hokin of Colliers International at (510) 433-5840.
“The energy and excitement for the brand has been at an all-time high this year,” adds Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. “We are excited to expand our presence in California and Texas with the highly experienced multi-unit operators who recognize our unique offering of food, and more importantly sees the value in growing with us.”
Founded by classically-trained chef Dave Kopushyan and three friends in early 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken initially opened as a parking lot pop-up, with lines quickly wrapping around the block. Since then, the brand has exploded in popularity and now has multiple brick-and-mortar locations open in Southern California. Today, the fast-casual brand has its sights set on growing throughout the United States through franchising and has several multi-unit agreements in development.
Specializing in hot chicken tenders and sliders, with spice levels ranging from “No Spice” to “Reaper,” each restaurant also serves sides of house-made Kale Slaw, creamy Mac & Cheese and crispy Fries or Cheese Fries.
Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a robust business model, including national and local marketing support, proven systems, manuals and operating procedures, as well as assistance with site selection. As the brand expands, it is seeking qualified, experienced and passionate restaurant operators and franchise groups to develop the concept in key markets.