A Wichita, Kansas-based fast-casual chicken chain is making its way to the Lowcountry.
While the company has not yet finalized specific sites or franchisees, Chick N Max is considering locations in Charleston, North Charleston, and Mount Pleasant, as reported by Charleston Business Journal.
The chain plans to open seven restaurants in the region—three in Charleston and two each in North Charleston and Mount Pleasant—creating up to 175 jobs.
“Southeastern markets like those in the Tri-County Area boast a well-established fast-casual chicken restaurant market, and we’re aiming to establish a strong presence of our own and capture market share,” said Jeff Frahm, Chick N Max’s vice president of franchise sales and development, in a press release. “We’re excited about turning the page to this next chapter of our evolution and look forward to bringing our innovative take on chicken to the area.”
Self-dubbed the “Home of the Better Chicken Sandwich,” Chick N Max serves 10 varieties of sandwiches, featuring almond wood-smoked pulled chicken or fried tenders, as well as 10 homestyle sides and 11 dipping sauces.
The Lowcountry restaurants will feature Chick N Max’s latest prototype, spanning approximately 2,100 square feet and offering indoor and outdoor seating for up to 80 patrons. Each location will include a drive-thru, designated curbside pick-up spaces, and a take-out counter.
Although Chick N Max will focus on freestanding sites, the company will also explore partnerships with colleges, truck stops, gas stations, hospitals, and amusement parks to expand its regional reach, according to Charleston Business Journal.
In addition to its upcoming Lowcountry locations, Chick N Max is planning further expansion across South Carolina, with targeted sites in Columbia, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Bluffton. Currently, the chain operates seven restaurants across Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas, with many more on the way.
Stay tuned for updates as official locations and franchisees are announced.
