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January 20.2026
3 Minutes Read

Angry Chickz Expands into New Markets and Gains Recognition in 2025

Interior of modern fast-food restaurant showing Angry Chickz expansion.

Angry Chickz Ramps Up Expansion into New Markets

As 2025 comes to a close, Angry Chickz, the California-based hot chicken franchise, is raising the bar with exciting announcements that signal a year of transformative growth. Known for its customizable spice levels, the brand closed out the year with impressive same-store sales up 21% and significant media recognition, underlining its rising profile on the national stage.

The Lone Star State Beckons

Perhaps the most noteworthy development was the opening of Angry Chickz's first restaurant in Houston, Texas, establishing the brand’s footprint in the Lone Star State. Alongside the Houston opening, five new locations were also launched in various California cities such as Elk Grove and Ventura. This swift expansion reflects a clear consumer demand for their distinctive flavors.

Strategic Partnerships for Future Growth

To further bolster its national footprint, Angry Chickz has signed several multi-unit area development agreements, targeting prominent states like Illinois, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, and West Texas. Such agreements signify a long-term commitment from franchise operators, ensuring a sustainable growth strategy. According to COO Peter Tremblay, “A large Texas contingency reached out to us through social media, so we believe Texas is going to be a huge winner for us.”

Recognition and Capital Infusion

Angry Chickz's impressive array of accolades in 2025 only adds to its momentum. The brand secured the No. 44 spot on QSR’s Top 50 Contenders List, was recognized as one of QSR’s “9 Franchises to Watch for 2025”, and made it onto the Franchise Times’ Top 400 List. This recognition is not only a testament to the quality of the franchise but also boosts its visibility among potential investors and franchisees.

Furthermore, the brand secured growth capital from Saratoga Investment Corp. This funding will support expansion initiatives, enhance supply chain operations, and deliver robust franchisee services. These resources are critical for maintaining consistency as the brand scales, ensuring that both new and existing partners receive the necessary backing.

Leadership and Community Engagement

The leadership team at Angry Chickz is actively involved in the restaurant and franchising communities, enhancing industry connections through events like the Restaurant Leadership Conference. Founder David Mkhitaryan emphasizes the importance of keeping the brand’s core values intact during expansion. “2025 was about proving we can grow responsibly while staying true to what made people fall in love with our food in the first place,” Mkhitaryan stated. This commitment to quality and operational excellence is crucial as they build towards a successful 2026.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Angry Chickz?

With expansion plans that include new locations in emerging markets, Angry Chickz stands poised for continued growth into 2026. This expansion strategy revolves around maintaining the quality and experience that have made the brand a favorite among hot chicken enthusiasts. The overall goal remains clear: to integrate into communities while delivering authentic Nashville hot chicken and supportive franchisee relations.

As we observe the hot chicken phenomenon gaining traction across the nation, particularly in states like Texas and New Mexico, it’s a trend that restaurant owners should watch closely. The demand for spicy, flavorful food is not going anywhere, and Angry Chickz is decidedly at the forefront of this movement.

For those interested in learning more about Angry Chickz and potential franchise opportunities, further information is available at their official website, AngryChickz.com.

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03.01.2026

City Barbeque Opens March 2: A New Flavor Hub in Rock Hill

Update City Barbeque Poised to Bring Flavor to Rock Hill Rock Hill, South Carolina, is about to get a taste of authentic barbeque as City Barbeque prepares to open its doors on March 2, 2026. Lauded for its commitment to traditional smoking techniques and community engagement, City Barbeque is a neighborhood joint that has been delighting customers with its slow-smoked meats and homemade sides since its inception in 1999. A Grand Opening with a Community Focus The new location, situated at 5001 Old York Road near Walmart Supercenter, marks the culmination of 25 years of barbeque excellence. On opening day, a fun-filled "Rib’n" cutting event is set to kick off the celebration, attended by local chamber representatives. The first 50 guests will be rewarded with gift bags, which include a City Barbeque T-shirt, signature sauce, and gift cards ranging from $5 to $250, with total giveaways amounting to $1,000. These incentives not only draw in customers but also foster a sense of community cooperation, illustrating City Barbeque's commitment to its new home. A Menu That Celebrates Tradition City Barbeque's menu is a tribute to classic barbecue fare, featuring brisket, pulled pork, ribs, turkey, and chicken. Each meat is smoked over hickory wood, bringing a flavor that has been painstakingly perfected over the years. Locally sourced ingredients enhance the scratch-made sides like macaroni and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw — ensuring that every bite is as fresh as it is hearty. The restaurant will also offer options for dine-in, carryout, delivery, and full-service catering, making it an ideal choice for various occasions, from office lunches to family gatherings. The Heartbeat of the Community “We’re excited to join the Rock Hill community,” stated Mike Muldoon, president and CEO of City Barbeque. “For more than two decades, we’ve believed that great barbeque brings people together. We’re looking forward to serving our new neighbors and becoming part of the local traditions that make Rock Hill special.” This statement encapsulates the essence of City Barbeque's philosophy — great food served in a welcoming environment fosters community bonds. City Barbeque's Legacy of Craftsmanship Since its humble beginnings as a backyard barbeque dream, City Barbeque has consistently focused on quality and community. Each restaurant maintains its commitment to craftsmanship, smoking meats on-site and preparing sides and desserts daily. This dedication to freshness and flavor has not only established a loyal customer base but has also earned the brand recognition and accolades as a leader in the barbeque industry. Anticipating a Successful Launch As the opening day approaches, excitement is palpable among locals eager for a taste of City Barbeque. The anticipation mirrors the excitement that often accompanies new business openings in town, promising a boost to local dining options and economic growth. For those new to this barbeque haven, it's a chance to indulge in the true flavors of America. City Barbeque invites everyone to explore its delicious menu and join in the festivities on March 2. To stay updated, guests can visit their website or follow City Barbeque on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

03.01.2026

Roy Rogers Restaurants Embraces Future-Ready Technology with Qu's Unified Commerce Platform

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03.01.2026

Is Banh Mi Ready for National Expansion? Insights from Bun Mee's CEO

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