Chicken Salad Chick Expands Franchise Footprint with Millennial, Gen Z Entrepreneurs
Event summary
- Chicken Salad Chick awarded nearly 100 new franchise deals in 2025, opening 42 locations across 13 states.
- Millennials and Gen Z franchisees are driving growth, attracted by the brand's proven model and community focus.
- The company has over 300 locations in its development pipeline, with younger franchisees expected to remain key to expansion.
- Chicken Salad Chick was ranked #3 in Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers & Shakers and #158 in Franchise Times' Top 400 for 2025.
The big picture
Chicken Salad Chick's growth strategy aligns with a broader industry trend of younger entrepreneurs seeking franchising opportunities that offer independence, community impact, and financial stability. The brand's structured support system and strong operational playbook make it an attractive option in the competitive fast-casual segment. With over 325 locations in 22 states, Chicken Salad Chick is positioning itself as a leader in the space, leveraging the unique perspectives and digital savviness of millennial and Gen Z franchisees to drive future expansion.
What we're watching
- Franchisee Retention
- How the brand's support system will sustain the engagement of younger franchisees.
- Market Expansion
- The pace at which Chicken Salad Chick can scale in emerging markets.
- Operational Consistency
- Whether the brand can maintain quality and guest experience across rapid growth.