The International Franchise Association (IFA) named Andrew Feghali and Lawrence Kourie, owners of Dave’s Hot Chicken in New Mexico, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Virginia, as the 2023 Franchisee of the Year.
As the pioneering franchisee group for Dave’s Hot Chicken, Feghali and Kourie embarked on their journey with a shared passion for introducing authentic Nashville-style hot chicken into untapped markets. Before beginning their extensive portfolio with Dave’s, the duo gained substantial experience in the food and beverage industry. Their decision to franchise with Dave’s was fueled by the brand’s irresistible appeal and the founders’ compelling vision of what a fast-casual chicken franchise can achieve.
Feghali and Kourie were honored at the 64th IFA Annual Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, for being an outstanding owner-operator franchise establishment.
“We are incredibly proud to honor Andrew and Lawrence for this great accomplishment. They represent the power of our franchise system,” says Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. “As the initial group to sign onto Dave’s Hot Chicken, Andrew and Lawrence have not only demonstrated exceptional leadership but have also played a pivotal role in the strategic expansion of the brand.”
In 2020, Feghali and Kourie made their mark in the brand’s history by signing a remarkable 12-unit development deal across San Diego County with a concept only three years old at the time. Now, with 10 locations already established across San Diego, Las Vegas, and Southern Arizona, their passion and commitment to the brand have fueled a series of over 35 subsequent expansion agreements, intending to open 100 total locations.
The duo’s second signed deal with Dave’s included six units in New Mexico and El Paso, spreading the hot chicken sensation to the Southwest. The group then decided to add another 17 units to their portfolio, spanning across Alabama, Georgia and Florida. Most recently, they made headlines once again by extending their reach to the East Coast, signing on for an additional 12 units in Richmond, Norfolk and Virginia Beach counties.
“We are truly honored to be named Franchisee of the Year from such an established organization within the industry,” says Kourie. “Our commitment extends beyond business growth as we continue to strengthen our connections with each local community.”
The Franchisee of the Year Award recognizes leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance, and promote the franchise business model. Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their involvement in their communities, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a strong and healthy culture with their workforce, and assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon.
“Franchisees of the Year exemplify what franchising is all about – providing opportunity, serving others, and fulfilling the American Dream,” says Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “We are proud to recognize Andrew and Lawrence with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and I have no doubt their work is changing lives and making a lasting community impact.”
