Dave’s Hot Chicken is spicing up its 2021 franchise development strategy to match the fiery momentum of its growth in 2020. From opening three new locations, to the expansion of its corporate team, the Nashville Hot Chicken concept has firmly established itself as a leader in the category in this past year.
Since the beginning of the year, Dave’s Hot Chicken has had its foot on the gas when it comes to new franchise agreements. Led by VP of Franchise Development, Shannon Swenson, the brand has signed agreements with 25 new franchise owners for over 270 units. These deals will allow Dave’s Hot Chicken to expand its presence outside of California across North America, including into Oregon, Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Texas and Canada. Most recently this past month, Swenson signed new agreements with several multi-unit franchise groups to bring an additional 65 units throughout other parts of the country, including the brand’s first location on the East Coast in North Carolina.
The brand is set to open at least 30 locations in 2021, and plans to have an additional 300 units in development.
“While this 2020 required us to pivot, we’ve been able to stay focused on maintaining our position as the fastest growing fast casual brand,” says Swenson, who joined Dave’s Hot Chicken at the tail-end of 2019. “We’re partnering with top-tier franchise operators who recognize our momentum and are eager to be a part of our story. 2021 will be big for us as we branch out of California and make our entrance into the Midwest and East Coast.”
The brand also strengthened their executive roster in 2020 with several new leadership team members. Jim Bitticks was appointed Chief Operations Officer in August, helping to enhance restaurant operations whilst also an integral part in emphasizing online ordering and curbside pick-up. Additionally, Ryan Crumley was brought on as Chief Development Officer to support the brand’s rapid expansion. Ed McBride was added as Vice President of IT to support Dave’s Hot Chicken’s digital infrastructure, and Tiffany Vassos joined as Vice President of Design and Construction.
“I’m incredibly proud of how we’ve been able to navigate this year. From growing our team to rolling out state-of-the-art technology in our restaurants to signing development deals with talented operators, we’re in a prime position to start the new year off strong,” says Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. “With 30-plus openings planned for 2021, it’ll be a big year for us and Nashville Hot Chicken fans coast-to-coast.”
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 and currently has more than 200 units committed in less than nine months of announcing the franchise initiative.
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.