Franchising

Chick N Max heading to Texas

Provided

June 13, 2022

Wichita-based Chick N Max is headed to Texas, thanks to a three-unit deal with restaurant veteran Aaron Johnson. While leases have yet to be signed, Johnson is eyeing the north side of Houston and expects to have his first restaurant open by year's end.

"The signing of this agreement represents yet another significant step in the growth of Chick N Max as we continue to drive our expansion efforts across the Central and Southeastern United States," Chick N Max Founder Max Sheets said in a company press release. "Anchored by our innovative take on chicken and an enthusiastic franchise partner like Aaron Johnson, we're perfectly positioned to accommodate the demands for healthier alternatives to burgers and look to the future with great enthusiasm."

Johnson's history in restaurant operations began in 1993 at Bennigan's, where he served as an area director for over 15 years. In 2008, he joined Smashburger as a district manager and was eventually promoted to regional director of operations. During his tenure with Smashburger, the company grew from six to over 300 units. Johnson has also held several operations positions with MOD Pizza, including regional vice president, and helped grow the brand from 195 to 530 restaurants nationwide.

"When I decided to make the transition from the corporate side to become a franchisee, I began researching several brands in the chicken sandwich space, and knew I wanted to partner with the one I felt had the strongest flavor profile," Johnson said in the release. "After my first bite of a Chick N Max sandwich during a visit to Wichita, I was sold. I'm especially excited to be joining Max Sheets and his dynamic leadership team. Having the opportunity to grow the brand in Houston, which I call home, gives me great pride."

Founded in 2017 and franchising since 2021, Chick N Max offers 10 flavors of chef-crafted sandwiches, made with almond-wood smoked pulled chicken, fried tenders, wings, leg quarters, breast quarters and half chickens.

The signing of the area development agreement with Johnson comes at a time when Chick N Max is looking to expand across various parts of the Central and Southeastern United States. With three corporate-owned restaurants, Chick N Max intends to double its footprint by the end of next year and open as many as five restaurants each year thereafter.