Competition in the fast food sector keeps intensifying in the United States. In fact, the sector of restaurants specializing in chicken has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. Although giants like KFC, Popeyes, and Chick-fil-A remain leaders, a new chain is beginning to attract more and more consumers.
It's not an easy task to enter the fast food market, precisely because of the high level of competition they encounter. However, fried chicken sales will have a contender that hopes to keep growing in the coming years. This is Dave’s Hot Chicken, a new chain that promises to take the market by storm.
Dave’s Hot Chicken: the spicy chicken revolution
Founded in 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken began as a modest restaurant in a California parking lot. The concept was simple: Nashville-style fried chicken, but with a spicy touch that set it apart from the competition. In a short time, the restaurant earned the loyalty of customers, who quickly turned it into a success.
What started with just a few locations in California has now expanded to more than 270 worldwide. The chain's growth has been impressive, with restaurants in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Middle East. In just eight years, Dave’s Hot Chicken has caused annual sales close to one billion dollars, becoming a serious competitor in the fried chicken market.
A major acquisition: Roark Capital enters the scene
Recently, Dave’s Hot Chicken has been at the center of attention due to its acquisition by Roark Capital, a giant in the food industry. Last February, rumors began circulating about the purchase of the chain for around one billion dollars, and a few months later, the acquisition was confirmed. Roark Capital, known for owning other major brands like Dunkin', Arby’s, and Sonic, seeks to accelerate Dave’s Hot Chicken's growth and expand its presence in new markets.
International expansion plans and continued growth
With the backing of Roark Capital, Dave’s Hot Chicken has big plans for the future. Its goal is to reach 400 restaurants worldwide by the end of 2025. The chain also seeks to expand its presence in non-traditional locations, such as airports, shopping malls, and university campuses, using franchisees to accelerate its growth.
In addition to consolidating its presence in the United States, Dave’s Hot Chicken has high expectations for growth in Europe and Asia. After opening its first store in the United Kingdom last year, the chain is ready to seize opportunities in these international markets.
The promising future of Dave’s Hot Chicken
Dave’s Hot Chicken has quickly established itself as one of the main contenders in the fried chicken sector. With its combination of a unique flavor and aggressive expansion, the chain is emerging as the new king of fried chicken in the coming years. With the backing of Roark Capital, its future looks even more promising.