1988
200
$1,200,000
$35,000
$2,500,000
No
Chicken Express is a beloved regional fast food chain that has been serving high-quality, crave-worthy meals since 1988. Founded in Benbrook, Texas, by Richard and Nancy Stuart, the brand has grown into a staple of Southern U.S. dining, offering a menu centered around crispy fried chicken, chicken tenders, catfish, and their signature Chicken E® Sweet Tea. With over 200 locations across Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Georgia, Chicken Express combines the speed of fast food with the comfort of home-style cooking.
The franchise model emphasizes an owner/operator philosophy, ensuring that each location is managed by dedicated individuals who are invested in delivering exceptional food and service. This approach has fostered a strong community connection and a loyal customer base. For entrepreneurs seeking a franchise opportunity with a proven track record, a supportive corporate team, and a brand that resonates with customers, Chicken Express presents a compelling option.
Investing in a Chicken Express franchise offers several advantages:
Proven Business Model: With decades of operation and a strong brand presence, Chicken Express has demonstrated consistent success and growth.
High-Quality Menu Offerings: The menu features popular items like fried chicken, chicken tenders, catfish, and sweet tea, catering to a wide range of tastes.
Strong Brand Recognition: The Chicken Express brand is well-known in the Southern U.S., attracting a loyal customer base.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing operational support, ensuring they have the tools needed to succeed.
Community Engagement: The brand's emphasis on community involvement fosters customer loyalty and repeat business.
Established Year: 1988
Founders: Richard and Nancy Stuart
Franchise Units: Over 200 locations across Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Georgia
Headquarters: Burleson, Texas
Parent Company: Stuart Group, Inc.
Industry Category: Fast Food Franchising
Chicken Express began as a single location in Benbrook, Texas, and has since expanded to over 200 locations. The brand's success is attributed to its commitment to quality, customer service, and community involvement. The franchise model has been designed to provide franchisees with the support and resources needed to operate successfully.
Chicken Express offers comprehensive support and training to its franchisees:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, store design, and construction to ensure the location meets brand standards.
Initial Training: A thorough training program covering all aspects of restaurant operations, including food preparation, customer service, and management practices.
Ongoing Operational Support: Continuous support to address operational challenges and ensure adherence to brand standards.
Marketing Support: Access to marketing materials and strategies to promote the franchise and attract customers.
Volume Purchasing: Franchisees benefit from volume purchasing pricing for food and packaging, reducing operational costs.
This robust support system ensures that franchisees are well-equipped to manage and grow their businesses effectively.
A successful Chicken Express franchisee is someone who combines entrepreneurial drive, business acumen, and a passion for the food and service industry. While prior restaurant experience is helpful, it is not strictly required because Chicken Express provides extensive pre-launch and operational support. However, the following traits and qualifications are key for a potential franchisee:
While newcomers can succeed, candidates with prior experience in managing businesses or restaurants have an advantage.
Skills in financial management, staff supervision, and customer service operations will help optimize the franchise’s profitability.
Previous multi-unit management or retail experience is a plus, but not mandatory.
A genuine interest in the food industry and a desire to serve quality meals to the community.
Dedication to maintaining high operational standards and delivering consistent customer experiences.
Willingness to actively participate in the business, rather than being a purely absentee investor.
Sufficient capital to cover the total initial investment, including franchise fees, infrastructure, working capital, and marketing.
Ability to sustain the business financially during the initial months before reaching break-even.
Ability to recruit, train, and manage staff effectively to maintain quality and operational efficiency.
Skills in problem-solving, decision-making, and team leadership to handle day-to-day challenges.
Strong organizational skills to ensure smooth operations and adherence to brand standards.
Preference for operating in Southern U.S. regions, such as Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Georgia, where the brand has strong recognition.
Understanding of local market dynamics, competition, and consumer preferences.
A franchisee who values community engagement, participates in local events, and builds strong relationships with customers.
Commitment to creating a friendly, welcoming environment that reflects the brand’s culture and values.
| Financial Component | Estimated Range / Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $1,200,000 – $2,500,000 (includes construction, equipment, and pre-opening expenses) |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $50,000 (one-time initial fee for brand rights and training) |
| Royalty Fee | 4% – 6% of gross sales (ongoing monthly fee for brand support) |
| Marketing Fee / Advertising | 2% – 3% of gross sales (contribution to regional and national marketing campaigns) |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | $750,000 – $1,800,000 (construction, interior design, kitchen equipment, signage) |
| Working Capital | $100,000 – $200,000 (operating funds to cover initial months of operation) |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% annually (depending on location, management efficiency, and market conditions) |
| Break-Even Time | 3 – 5 years (typical for new restaurants in the fast-food sector) |
| Revenue Streams | Food & beverage sales, catering, delivery, online ordering, seasonal promotions |
| Franchise Units in USA | 200+ locations (primarily in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Georgia) |
