Scaling Boldly: Dave’s Hot Chicken’s Recipe for 2025

Dave’s Hot Chicken is blazing into 2025 with the same relentless energy that propelled its rapid ascent in the fast-casual industry. With ambitious plans to break into high-impact markets and fine-tune its operational edge, Dave’s Hot Chicken’s momentum is fueled by a mix of ambition, strategy, and undeniable heat!

Dave’s global footprint is growing fast. The brand’s landmark deal with the @Azzurri Group will bring 60 units to the UK and Ireland, starting with a flagship location that opened this month in London. Additional deals are in motion to bring Dave’s Hot Chicken’s iconic Nashville-style heat to new markets around the globe.

Meanwhile, the decision to open Dave’s first non-traditional location inside Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas highlights its next phase of strategic expansion. Airports offer access to travelers hungry for bold, authentic flavors and open the door to high-traffic, non-traditional spaces.

The Backbone of a Winning Model

What keeps this kind of growth sustainable? A franchise model built to scale, supported by a solid operational and technological infrastructure. Investments in tech partnerships with Qu and QSR Automations ensure that Dave’s can rapidly expand without missing a beat. These tools streamline kitchen operations and make it easy to adjust menus, all while maintaining the same high standards that define the brand in all corners of the world.

To keep franchisees ahead of the curve, Dave’s uses video mystery shops twice a month through Reality Based Group, arming franchisees with actionable insights to refine operations. Coupled with a 19% average post-royalty margin and a two-year payback period, it’s no wonder franchisees are eager to expand. In 2024, early franchisees doubled down with new territories in Arkansas and Missouri, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, ?St. Louis, and Tulsa — a clear sign of confidence in the franchise model.

Staying True to Its Roots

Despite its explosive growth, Dave’s stays grounded in what made it great: the highest-quality Nashville-style hot chicken, a vibe that’s as bold as the food, and a mission to create opportunities on every level.

From an East Hollywood parking lot to a billion-dollar player in the fast-casual chicken space, the brand’s mission-driven approach resonates as strongly now as ever, uniting franchisees and customers alike around the promise of unforgettable heat and unmatched quality.

Connect with me to see where Dave’s Hot Chicken flies in 2025!