Bojangles, the American fast food restaurant specializing in Cajun-seasoned fried chicken and buttermilk biscuits, is preparing to break into the Chicago market.
The company recently announced the signing of a multi-unit franchise development agreement with RMS Family Restaurants, LLC. Under this agreement, the company will open three new restaurants in suburban areas throughout the Chicago market over the next three years. Franchise owner Ron Harper tells What Now Chicago he plans to launch Bojangles in DuPage county. He has yet to officially secure a site for his first location.
“Our launch into Chicago is a tremendous step for Bojangles as we continue to expand across the country,” Patricia Halpin, Vice President of Growth at Bojangles, said in a press release. “We are beginning to build a powerful brand presence throughout the Midwest, where consumers have fallen in love with our products, and we’re confident this will hold true with new customers in Chicago. We’re constantly seeking passionate, experienced multi-unit operators like Ron to add to our rapidly growing system and are excited to witness his success as he grows the brand throughout Chicago.”
A Chicago native, Harper previously owned and operated various McDonald’s locations throughout Memphis. RMS strives to provide a great guest experience, demonstrating customer appreciation by providing good food, value, and superior service in a welcoming environment. After realizing that these principles aligned with Bojangles’ core, Harper was eager to leverage his expertise and understanding of the Chicago market to bring the brand to the area for the first time.
“There’s certainly a desire for chicken concepts in Chicago, and we recognize that Bojangles offers an opportunity that truly stands out among its competitors,” Harper said in a press release. “With unique offerings and an unmatched flavor profile, Southern-style hospitality, and an overall proven concept, we look forward to building upon the strong customer loyalty that Bojangles is known for. We’re given an edge in the space with three robust dayparts, including a strong breakfast component that results in 37 percent of sales coming during the morning daypart. The brand has immense potential within this new market, and we’re excited to play a role in Bojangles’ evolution as we lead expansion efforts here in Chicago.”
This is just the beginning for Bojangles, which is in the midst of aggressive expansion and is looking to add qualified franchisees to its growing brand. The company has more than 230 units in its current development pipeline and recent agreements to expand in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, South Austin, Texas, North Central Mississippi, Baltimore, Maryland, and Central Florida.
