Franchising

Vicious Biscuit opening 1st franchised unit

Photo: Vicious Biscuit

December 29, 2023

Charleston, South Carolina-based Vicious Biscuit is opening its first franchised location next year in Northeast Ohio via a six-unit deal with native Ohioans Carl Albright, Ken Troutman, Dave Ost and Curtis Fox.

"The decision to franchise with Vicious Biscuit was driven by several key factors," Albright said in a company press release. "First and foremost, we were excited about the quality of the food and the overall vibe of the restaurant. It's different, unlike anything in Northeast Ohio, with a more youthful feel and more energy. People love to go out to breakfast, but they're looking for something new, fresher, and different, and we believe Vicious Biscuit will provide that. The breakfast business hours appealed to us, aligning well with the local labor market for hiring. Additionally, the prospect of working together, given our successful careers, was an exciting opportunity for us all."

Striking a balance between fast casual dining and the hospitality typically associated with traditional full-service establishments, Vicious Biscuit features biscuit creations, including The Fat Boy, The Flame Thrower and The Vicious. Sides include Sweet Puppies, beignets, shrimp and grits as well as signature jams and house-made butters, and the drink menu offers freshly squeezed mimosas and craft cocktails.

The 2018-born chain, which has five company-owned locations, launched its franchising program in early 2023, partnering with brand accelerator Pivotal Growth Partners. With seven franchisee deals totaling nearly 40 units in the works, Vicious Biscuit expects to reach 75 locations over the next five years.

"We are incredibly excited to partner with Dave, Carl, Curtis and Ken as we expand into Ohio and open our very first franchise location," George McLaughlin, co-founder of Vicious Biscuit, said in the release. "Their passion and serious experience, combined with our shared vision for exceptional dining experiences, makes them the perfect team to introduce our brand to the Buckeye State. We're confident that the unique appeal of Vicious Biscuit, already familiar to many Ohioans who vacation in South Carolina, will resonate strongly in this new market."