Southern Classic Chicken Signs 2-Unit Development Deal for Lafayette

Both locations will be owned and operated by The Fontenot Family, including Jessie, Amanda, and their son Brody. The family currently lives in Rayne and are no strangers to the Lafayette area and close-knit community. Additionally, Jessie and Amanda are not rookies in the franchising space, owning three Fat Pats locations under Ballgame LLC. The couple is excited to enter their newest franchise endeavor with the help of their son.

“We’re thrilled to join the Southern Classic Chicken team and continue our franchising endeavors, especially with our son by our side,” said Amanda. “Brody’s attention to detail, ability to maintain relationships, and exceptional organization and prioritization skills make him the perfect fit to manage the daily hands-on operations.”

The new development deal is expected to open its first Lafayette location before Q4 in 2022 and the second following shortly after.

Southern Classic Chicken serves up home-style fried chicken made with a proprietary marinade and batter complemented by fresh side offerings inspired by its southern roots. The family-focused brand is well-known across Northern Louisiana for its fried chicken and value pricing where an average meal ranges from $5-7. Sourcing the freshest ingredients and products possible is the top priority so the brand can provide the “absolute best” to its customers at a better price point and value than competitors.

“We have no doubt that the Fontenot’s will successfully integrate Southern Classic Chicken in Lafayette,” noted Alan Fanning, founding family member of Southern Classic Chicken. “As a family-owned business, we are excited about the dynamic The Fontenot Family will bring to the table. We have no doubt that they will succeed, especially with the help of our franchise and operations team.”

Nick Binnings and Tom O’Keefe have helped spearhead Southern Classic Chicken’s recent success with a combined experience of over 50 years in the restaurant operations and franchising space. Binnings held an executive position at Another Broken Egg Café while O’Keefe has held executive positions at Popeye’s/Church’s Chicken and Smoothie King, among others. Binnings and O’Keefe joined forces to help Southern Classic Chicken grow because of its culture, quality and incredible value.