Central Ohio’s fast-casual scene is about to get a crispy upgrade. Doug McGuire, a longtime Arby’s franchisee and tax accountant, has signed a 22-unit development deal to bring Layne’s Chicken Fingers to north central Ohio.
McGuire, who operates eight Arby’s locations throughout the state, plans to open his first Layne’s in Lima by spring 2026. From there, he aims to open two to three new locations per year, focusing on 2,400-square-foot restaurants with both seating and drive-thru service.
With the Ohio market largely saturated for Arby’s, McGuire saw Layne’s as the perfect next step. The Texas-based chicken chain, known for its chicken fingers, crinkle fries and Texas toast, has been expanding rapidly. It recently surpassed 30 locations and has signed deals for 50 more units nationwide this year alone.
McGuire said Layne’s appeals to a younger, on-the-go crowd and believes Ohio presents a prime opportunity to build brand recognition. He anticipates that, much like his Arby’s stores, drive-thru will make up a significant portion of sales.
The biggest challenge ahead? Finding high-traffic real estate for either new builds or restaurant conversions. But McGuire, whose restaurant roots go back 18 years, is optimistic about the brand’s future in Ohio—and possibly about passing it on to the next generation. With five kids, some already eyeing the family business, this chicken venture could become a full-fledged family affair.
