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Blaze founders collaborate with celeb investors on hot chicken concept

Image provided by Dave's Hot Chicken

September 26, 2019

Dave's Hot Chicken is leaving behind its humble beginnings as a parking lot pop-up thanks to a few celebrity investors and support from the founders of Wetzel's Pretzels and Blaze Pizza. 

"After co-founding and growing Wetzel's Pretzels to more than 350 locations and $150 million in sales, and being an original investor in Blaze Pizza, I can say the national growth potential for Dave's Hot Chicken is unparalleled," Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave's Hot Chicken, said in a company press release. "The product experience is phenomenal and far elevated compared to traditional quick service and fast casual chicken chains. We're looking forward to partnering with multi-unit operators to bring Dave's to major markets across the country."

Along with Phelps, Dave's Hot Chicken counts Maria Shriver and movie producer John Davis as investors, both of whom were initial investors of Blaze Pizza in 2012. Additional investors in Dave's include Good Morning America anchor and former NFL football player Michael Strahan as well as the highest-grossing actor of all time, Samuel L. Jackson, according to the release.

"The fast casual chicken category has been red hot in recent years. As predicted, chicken concepts have taken off to fill consumer demand for healthier protein in an affordable, craveable format. Predicated on the success of chain leaders Chick-fil-a and Raising Caine's, emerging concepts are being incubated to fill underserved niches," Darren Tristano, CEO of Foodservice Results, said in the release. "Craving for high quality food with bold, spicy flavors appears to be representative of Millennial and younger GenZ consumers. Whoever cracks the code on the next big concept will find themselves in a strong position for long-term growth. Dave's Hot Chicken checks the boxes on today's trends and has the executive experience, founder track record and appealing concept elements for success."

Dave's Hot Chicken specializes in Hot Chicken tenders and sliders, offered at seven various spice levels ranging from No Heat to Reaper — which requires a signed waiver for those who dare —  and sides of house-made kale slaw, mac 'n' cheese and French Fries.

Founded by Chef Dave Kopushyan and his three best friends, Dave's Hot Chicken is now licensed to franchise in most of the country, including California, Texas, Nevada, New York, Washington, Maryland and Illinois.

The chain's second unit is opening this month in North Hollywood's Arts District at 5166 Lankershim Blvd, while a third LA unit is coming in December to Koreatown.