News

Slim Chickens expanding in UK

November 21, 2019

Arkansas-based Slim Chickens is opening in Bristol, marking thechain's sixth location in the United Kingdom, according to a company press release.

"When looking to bring a better-chicken brand across the pond, Slim Chickens was in a league of its own," Tom Crowley, CEO of Boparan Restaurant Group, the franchise partner of Slim Chickens in the U.K. "From its high-quality product to the passionate executive team, we knew it was the right fit and would resonate with British diners.” 

BRG — which has more than 60 restaurants within four brands across the U.K. — already operates five Slim Chickens in the country and will open five to eight more in 2020, to complete its multi-unit franchise agreement.

"BRG is exactly the type of experienced multi-concept franchisees that we're looking for as we expand into new territories, both globally and domestically in the United States," Jackie Lobdell, executive director of franchise development at Slim Chickens, said in the release. "Tom and his team's passion for the brand and deep operational experience reflect the qualities we look for in franchise partners.” 

In July, Slim Chickens attracted an equity investment from 10 Point Capital, the private equity firm behind Tropical Smoothie. Although terms of the deal were not disclosed, Gordon said it's enough to help the brand achieve its goal of opening 600 stores over the next 10 years.