The Louisiana family-founded chain is now opening its doors to investment from driven franchisees.
Southern Classic Chicken, a fried chicken restaurant founded in 1989, has announced the start of its franchising journey with the launch of its brand-new franchise opportunity. Through the model, the brand hopes to expand its 17 corporate-owned locations into a national network throughout the U.S.
The franchising drive is being driven by Nick Binnings, director of brand development, and Tom O’Keefe, managing director, who have over 50 years of restaurant experience between them. Binnings was most recently the vice president of brand development for Another Broken Egg Cafe, while O’Keefe has more than 30 years of experience as a franchise attorney, working with brands such as Popeye’s, Ruth Chris Steak House, and Anytime Fitness.
“We are no strangers to the franchising space and have worked with many national and international brands,” said O’Keefe. “What we saw in Southern Classic Chicken was unlike anything else out there. We joined forces to help the brand grow because of its culture, quality, and incredible value. Adding super compelling unit-level economics to those other components leaves us very confident that this franchise opportunity will be well received and pursued.”
The brand has seen continued demand throughout the pandemic, thanks to its thriving drive-thru restaurant model, and its affordable price point; the average Southern Classic Chicken meal costs between $5 and $7.
“Fried chicken is a comfort food that many enjoy, especially here in the South,” said Binnings. “With such an incredible value, we have seen sales continue to prosper despite the pandemic because it’s an affordable option that can feed the whole family. In fact, in 2020, Southern Classic Chicken’s system-wide sales have increased more than 20 per cent on drive-thru sales alone.”
Currently, Southern Classic Chicken is looking for experienced franchisees with restaurant management backgrounds, whose priorities align with the family-focused culture that the brand has fostered.
