Chicken Salad Chick Sees Franchise Growth Surge Among Millennials, Gen Z

Chicken Salad Chick has reported franchise growth driven by millennials and Gen Z, with nearly 100 new franchise restaurant deals awarded and 42 locations opened across 13 states in 2025.

Chicken Salad Chick has reported increased franchise interest and ownership among millennials and Gen Z entrepreneurs, who are playing a growing role in the brand’s expansion. Younger franchisees are drawn to the company’s established brand recognition and scalable growth potential.

Franchisees receive support with site selection, restaurant build-out, marketing, and daily operations, as well as access to a collaborative network of fellow owners. Devon Chamberlin, a millennial owner in Northern Virginia, entered franchising to expand her impact beyond her previous career and emphasized digital marketing and social media to connect with guests. Chamberlin noted that understanding the motivations of team members from her generation, such as flexibility and recognition, has been important for team development.

A recent study shows that millennials and Gen Z prioritize a balance of financial considerations, meaning, and well-being in their career decisions. Chicken Salad Chick’s franchise structure aligns with these values by offering operational support alongside entrepreneurial independence. Chamberlin credited support from both the corporate team and the franchisee community for providing mentorship and operational guidance.

In 2025, Chicken Salad Chick awarded nearly 100 new franchise restaurant deals and opened 42 locations across 13 states. The company has more than 300 locations in its development pipeline and expects younger franchisees to remain a significant part of its growth strategy.