Slim Chickens Achieves Notable Distinction On Entrepreneur Magazine’s 42nd Annual Franchise 500® List

Slim Chickens announced today that it has been named to Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500® list.

The recognition received by Slim Chickens highlights the successful expansion made by the company in 2020. An addition of 16 units last year brings the brand’s total number to 116 Restaurants opened as of the end of 2020.

“It’s such an honor to be recognized by Entrepreneur with this ranking,” said Vice President of Franchise Development, Jackie Lobdell. "We are excited to build upon our momentum from this past year in 2021 by continuing to grow in new markets, creating lasting partnerships, or supporting existing ones with our current franchisees. We are very optimistic looking into this new year.”

The key factors that go into the evaluation include costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500® in ranking order.

“2020 was a challenging year for everyone, but it was also a year of unusual opportunity,” says Jason Feifer, Entrepreneur editor-in-chief. “Franchises were able to be nimble and innovative, serving the needs of franchisees and customers in ways that will resonate for many years to come. We believe that, when we eventually look back on this time, we’ll see it as a moment when many brands defined themselves for the future.”

With hundreds of thousands of happy customers, the brand has developed a strong devoted fanbase, also known as “Slimthusiasts,” helping to fuel demand for the hand-breaded, cooked-to-order tenders. Slim Chickens has distinguished itself in the “better chicken” segment by offering high-quality food and 17 house-made dipping sauces, allowing customers to enjoy a different flavor profile with each visit. Its menu is broader than many in the category, offering chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings and unique side items.

Fans also resonate with the southern contemporary look and feel and the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

Slim Chickens is a fast-casual brand in the better-chicken segment, built to scale across markets with flexible formats. Its diverse menu, cooked-to-order quality, and Southern hospitality continue to drive strong growth.