Slim Chickens, a fast-casual franchise which features dine-in and drive-thru in the “better chicken” segment, announced today that it has signed a multi-unit agreement with Dennis Ekstrom to develop 10 restaurants across New Mexico and in El Paso, Texas. The first location is slated to open in 2021. Ekstrom is pursuing sites in lively communities across Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Las Cruces and El Paso, to name a few.

“Slim Chickens is the perfect addition to my portfolio. When I was introduced to the Slim Chickens brand, I was immediately sold on the concept – this brand is something special to be a part of,” says Ekstrom. “The current momentum behind Slim Chickens made now the perfect time to franchise. I was impressed with how the brand has grown and led the fast-casual space in recent months.”

Dennis Ekstrom, an experienced restaurant operator, is bringing Slim Chickens to markets throughout New Mexico and in to El Paso, Texas. He is a multi-unit owner of 10 Del Taco restaurants and has more than 30 years of restaurant ownership experience. 

“Dennis is exactly the kind of franchisee we’re seeking to expand the brand into new markets,” says Jackie Lobdell, vice president of franchise development at Slim Chickens. “His professional background in the restaurant and franchise industry is exactly what we look for as we sign franchisees across the county.”

The better-chicken brand has opened 125 locations across the United States, the United Kingdom and Kuwait, and is known for its passionate group of followers. With more than 500 units in development, the fast-growing brand is well on its way to reaching its goal of 600 restaurants.