News

Dave's Hot Chicken signs 10-unit agreement

Provided

February 21, 2020

Dave's Hot Chicken, a Los Angeles-based street food concept, has inked a 10-unit franchise agreement with Carl L. Karcher of CLK Inc., who owns over 100 Carl's Jr. and Jamba Juice locations throughout Southern California.

"The hot chicken category has tremendous growth potential and is a logical choice as we seek to expand our portfolio. After doing our due diligence, Dave's Hot Chicken was the clear front-runner," Karcher said in a company press release. "The simplicity of the brand's operations, along with the passionate and experienced leadership team, booming fan following and delicious food was extremely attractive and made the choice to invest a no-brainer. Our team is eager to grow Dave's Hot Chicken in Southern California.”

Founded by classically trained chef Dave Kopushyan and three friends in early 2017, Dave's Hot Chicken initially opened as a parking lot pop-up, with lines quickly wrapping around the block. The brand now has multiple brick-and-mortar locations open in Southern California and has its sights set on growing throughout the United States through franchising.

"Carl is exactly the type of operating partner that we are looking to grow alongside. As a cultural fit, we are confident that he will create the same energy and experience in the Low and High Desert regions that we aim to produce in each restaurant," Shannon Swenson, VP of Franchise Development at Dave's Hot Chicken, said in the release. "Our focus is to partner with accomplished and savvy multi-unit restaurant operators, and Carl fits that bill perfectly. We are thrilled to continue growing Dave's Hot Chicken with excellent franchise partners and are excited to see the concept expand in new markets."

Specializing in hot chicken tenders and sliders, with spice levels ranging from "No Spice" to "Reaper," each restaurant also serves sides of house-made Kale Slaw, creamy Mac & Cheese and crispy Fries or Cheese Fries.