News

Slim Chickens breaking into Florida market

Provided

February 13, 2020

Slim Chickens is opening its first Florida location this spring at 300 W. 23rd St. in Panama City and is part of the brand's recent 10-unit franchise agreement covering the Florida Panhandle. There will also be a location coming to the Callaway area, according to a company press release.

Chris and Amy McMillan, along with business partners Richard Maddox, Adam Cantrell and Becky Retherford, are bringing Slim Chickens to the region and are all local business owners in Panama City. 

"Slim Chickens has incredible momentum behind it — the brand is red hot. Now is the time to franchise with the brand," Chris McMillan, co-owner of the new restaurants, said in the release. "We truly believe in Slim Chickens and are thrilled to show new customers in Florida what the excitement is all about. With its touch of southern hospitality and broad menu, we know it's going to be a hit."

In addition to the forthcoming location in Panama City, the group plans to open in towns and cities across the Panhandle like Pensacola, Fort Walton, Callaway and others. 

"The McMillans and their business partners are exactly the kind of franchisees we're seeking as we expand into new markets," Jackie Lobdell, executive director of franchise development at Slim Chickens, said in the release."Their professional background in restaurant operations coupled with their local business expertise are what we look for as we sign franchisees across the country."

The better-chicken brand has opened 100 locations across the U.S., the United Kingdom and Kuwait. With more than 350 units in development, it's on its way to reaching its goal of 600 restaurants. 

In July, Slim Chickens attracted an equity investment from 10 Point Capital, the private equity firm behind Tropical Smoothie Café. 

Slim Chickens opened in 2003 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.