Big Chicken Sets Ambitious Global Expansion Goals

Big Chicken, founded by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal, is on a mission to scale to 275 locations by 2029, QSR Magazine recently reported. The fast-casual chain currently operates 46 restaurants, with 210 additional locations in the pipeline. CEO Josh Halpern credits O’Neal’s global appeal and strategic franchise partnerships for the brand’s rapid growth.

Big Chicken’s international footprint began with a location in the U.K., and plans are in place to expand to Canada, Honduras and the UAE in 2025. Halpern noted that O’Neal’s global popularity has driven demand in diverse markets, with the company targeting areas where it can establish operational efficiency and brand recognition.

The chain has been selective with its franchisees, ensuring alignment with its core values and long-term goals. Recent openings have demonstrated strong consumer interest, with some locations generating impressive revenues in their first days of operation. Halpern also highlighted the importance of building a lean, highly skilled leadership team to manage the company’s expansion responsibly.

With a focus on operational excellence, strategic partnerships, and leveraging O’Neal’s extensive reach, Big Chicken is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious growth targets. Halpern described the brand’s momentum as “lightning in a bottle,” reflecting its unique combination of celebrity influence and strong fundamentals.