Slim Chickens announced that it has signed a multi-unit franchise agreement in Alabama’s Baldwin County, with the first restaurant slated to open in late 2021 in Foley.
Existing franchisees Chris and Amy McMillan, along with business partners Richard Maddox, Adam Cantrell and Becky Retherford, are bringing Slim Chickens to the region. The group, which collectively has nearly 20 years of restaurant operations experience, already has a deal in place with Slim Chickens to develop 10 restaurants along the Florida Panhandle. Its first Slim Chickens restaurant opened in Panama City Beach this past June to record-setting numbers for the brand.
“After our very strong opening in Panama City Beach a few months back, we knew we wanted to expand our relationship with Slim Chickens and develop more restaurants along the Gulf Coast,” says Chris McMillan. “Getting in now was important as markets across the country are going fast. We know folks in Baldwin County are going to love the food and vibe of the restaurants.”
In addition to the location coming to Foley, the group will develop additional Slim Chickens restaurants across Baldwin County and is already looking at sites in bustling communities.
“The McMillans and their business partners are incredibly savvy franchisees who understand what it takes to run high-performing restaurants,” says Jackie Lobdell, vice president of franchise development at Slim Chickens. “With their record-setting first opening in Panama City Beach, they wanted to make sure they secured the nearby Baldwin County market swiftly and continued to grow their franchise portfolio with Slim Chickens.”
The better-chicken brand has opened over 110 locations across the United States, the United Kingdom and Kuwait, and is known for its passionate group of followers. With more than 400 units in development, the fast-growing brand is well on its way to reaching its goal of 600 restaurants.
The brand prides itself on its cooked-to-order fresh food and strong devoted fanbase, also known as “Slimthusiasts.” Slim Chickens has distinguished itself in the “better chicken” segment by offering high-quality food and 17 house-made dipping sauces, allowing customers to enjoy a different flavor profile with each visit. Its menu, which is broader than many in the segment, includes chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings and unique side items. Fans also resonate with the southern contemporary look and feel and the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.
The Slim Chickens franchise opportunity differentiates itself with prime markets available for multi-unit development, a passionate leadership team and world-class franchisee support system. As Slim Chickens expands, it is awarding franchise opportunities to qualified, experienced and passionate multi-unit groups looking to add a dynamic segment to their portfolio.