Franchising

Chick N Max opening Texas unit

Photo: Chick N Max

November 13, 2023

Wichita, Kansas-based Chick N Max has signed a lease for a location in Lufkin, Texas. It will open in the first quarter of next year under the direction of Aaron Johnson, a 30-year veteran of the franchise industry, who last year signed an area development agreement for 25 units across East Texas. He opened his first Chick N Max in the Houston suburb of Willis in May.

"We're incredibly happy to celebrate this and each milestone with Aaron, whose prior restaurant experience and knowledge of the market has been instrumental throughout the development process," Chick N Max founder and CEO Max Sheets said in a company press release. "Our continued ability to grow in Texas is also no doubt a testament to our revolutionary business model, the strength of our brand, and the loyalty of our customers."

Founded in 2017 and franchising since 2021, Chick N Max offers 10 flavors of chef-crafted sandwiches made with fried tenders or almond-wood smoked pulled chicken. In addition, it serves almond wood-smoked chicken in the form of wings, leg quarters, breast quarters, and half chicken. Sides include fries, onion rings, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and smoked white beans.

"Chick N Max has perfected a niche that truly differentiates itself from the competition," Johnson said in the release. "Our made-from-scratch menu has something for everyone, with options for those looking to indulge to guests looking for a healthier take on traditional fast-casual chicken offerings."

Chick N Max is set for growth in the coming years, thanks to an active franchise pipeline that stands at over 50 restaurants across Kansas, South Dakota and Texas. Company plans call for opening five to seven restaurants over the next 12 months and at least that many each year thereafter.