How to Start Your Own Chicken Franchise in 2025

Chicken is a popular protein in the United States, and people are always looking for new and tasty chicken meals. That is why getting a chicken franchise in 2025 might be a great idea for a business. With a chicken franchise, you can make money off of a popular product while using the systems and brand recognition of a well-known business.

Looking to open your own chicken franchise? This complete guide will tell you everything you need to know, from picking a franchise to getting your business up and running.

Why Open a Chicken Franchise?

Here are some of the key advantages of starting a chicken franchise business

• Built-in brand recognition and loyalty. Customers already know and trust established brands like KFC, Popeyes, Chick-fil-A, etc. This makes marketing easier and brings in customers on day one.

• Proven business model. Franchisors provide training and let you in on systems they have perfected over decades in business. This significantly lowers your risk.

• Ongoing support. You can get help from a group of skilled professionals who want you to succeed. They’ll provide assistance with marketing, operations, training, purchasing, and more.

• Purchasing power. Chicken franchisors leverage their size to get discounts from suppliers. This gives a major advantage over independent restaurants.

• Menu variety Leading chicken franchises offer diverse options beyond bone-in fried chicken This casts a wider net to attract customers,

• Innovation. Established franchises continuously update menus, enhance technology, and tweak operations to stay competitive in the ever-changing market.

Step 1: Choose a Chicken Franchise Brand

With so many options, how do you select the right chicken franchise? Here are some key factors to consider:

• Concept – Is the brand known for fried chicken, rotisserie, wings, tenders, or something else? Align with a concept that fits your interests and local market demand.

• Financials – Review estimated startup costs, profit margins, royalty fees, and financing options Make sure the investment level and return meets your goals

• Growth – Research recent brand growth and store counts. This indicates franchisor success and remaining expansion potential.

• Support – Look at training programs, ongoing assistance, operating systems, and marketing provided. Strong support sets you up for success.

• Culture – Get a feel for company values and brand persona. You’ll represent the franchisor to customers.

• Reviews – Check out feedback from current franchisees to gauge satisfaction levels. Look for red flags like poor communication or lack of field support.

Once you’ve narrowed options based on these factors, it’s smart to consult with a franchise attorney before selecting your franchise brand.

Step 2: Apply and Get Approved

After selecting your preferred franchise, it’s time to apply and get approved. Be prepared to provide:

• A franchise application detailing your background, business experience, and financial position.

• Proof of capital to cover the startup costs through savings, loans, or investor partnerships.

• Agreement to a background check and credit check.

• In some cases, a franchise fee just to apply, which can be up to $50,000.

The franchisor will evaluate if you’re a good fit based on your experience, dedication level, financial means, credit standing, and alignment with brand values. Many franchisors approve just 1 out of every 10-15 candidates, so put your best foot forward!

Step 3: Sign the Franchise Agreement

If accepted, you’ll receive a franchise agreement contract detailing all terms of the franchisor-franchisee relationship. Be sure to review carefully with a lawyer. Key items to look for include:

• Duration length and renewal terms

• Required startup investment amount

• Ongoing royalties and marketing fees

• Supply and ingredient restrictions

• Operations standards and procedures

• Training mandates

• Marketing support provided

• Territory restrictions and rights

Get any desired negotiated terms in writing before signing the franchise agreement. This legally solidifies you as an official franchisee.

Step 4: Complete Training

Once under contract, you’ll go through the franchisor’s training program to master brand operations. This typically includes:

• Classroom sessions learning management systems, marketing tactics, and more.

• On-the-job training at a currently operating franchise location.

• Instruction on food preparation protocols.

• Coaching on ordering processes and inventory systems.

• Training on customer service standards.

• Practice with point-of-sale software and technologies used.

Completing training equips you to replicate the franchisor’s winning formula in your own store. This hands-on experience is invaluable preparation.

Step 5: Set up Your Location

A smart location choice is critical to success. You’ll want to look for:

• High foot traffic areas like malls, entertainment districts, etc.

• Easy accessibility for customers.

• Ample parking availability.

• Minimal direct competition in the immediate area.

• Strong brand awareness and demand in the region.

• Convenience for supply deliveries and distributions.

Once you settle on a spot, you’ll work with contractors to follow brand specifications for build-out and decor.

Step 6: Market Pre-Opening

In the weeks leading up to your grand opening, execute an integrated marketing campaign to generate buzz. This can include:

• Social media announcements and limited time freebie offers for your location.

• Local radio and TV promotions.

• Partnerships with schools, charities, or community groups.

• Print ads in neighborhood papers or magazines.

• Direct mail coupons sent to nearby households.

• Influencer collaborations with local food bloggers or personalities.

Make sure to spread the word far and wide so opening day is slammed!

Step 7: Have a Grand Opening Event

A stellar grand opening sets the tone for success. Spare no expense to throw an unforgettable community party such as:

• Offering free food samples or special deals.

• Hosting contests, games, or giveaways.

• Booking fun entertainment like music acts or face painting.

• Decorating with balloons, branded signage, and festive decor.

• Inviting local dignitaries like the mayor to cut a ribbon.

Capture content throughout to share online and build hype.

Step 8: Manage Ongoing Operations

Once open, it’s time to implement all those systems learned in training and establish day-to-day operations. Be sure to:

• Maintain brand cleanliness, service, and food quality standards.

• Perform daily inventory and place supply orders as needed.

• Review weekly financial reports and P&L statements.

• Motivate and monitor your hired staff.

• Stay on top of equipment maintenance and repairs.

• Keep an eye out for ways to improve processes.

Lean on your franchisor field reps whenever you need guidance or have questions arise.

Step 9: Continue Marketing Initiatives

Consistency is crucial when it comes to marketing. Develop strategies to bring in new customers and keep existing ones coming back.

• Run loyalty programs with prizes or free food rewards.

• Leverage seasonal offerings like holiday catering menus.

• Promote limited time specialty items to generate buzz.

• Use geofencing mobile ads to target nearby customers.

• Host in-store events like trivia nights or karaoke.

• Partner with third-party delivery apps to expand reach.

Always track results to determine winning marketing tactics.

Step 10: Consider Expansion

Many franchise agreements allow for opening multiple units after achieving success with your first location.

You can grow by:

• Opening more stores within your exclusive territory.

• Asking for additional territories in new markets.

• Acquiring preexisting franchise units that become available.

• Signing deals to open locations in non-traditional spaces like airports or stadiums.

Expanding strategically allows you to generate greater profits and scale the business.

Is a Chicken Franchise Right for You?

Starting any business is a major endeavor, so make sure to self-reflect before diving in. A chicken franchise may be the perfect path if you:

• Have a true passion for the food service industry.

• Are attracted to an established concept versus building a brand new idea.

• Appreciate ongoing support compared to going it alone.

• Enjoy interacting with customers and managing staff.

• Are willing to follow proven formulas and systems.

• Can afford the required startup capital.

By tapping into the demand for an all-time favorite food and leveraging the strength of a proven franchisor, a chicken franchise offers a recipe for success in 2025 and beyond. Follow this step-by-step guide to cook up your very own profitable chicken franchise empire!