A Texas-born chicken franchise is expanding to the Peach State for the first time.
Layne’s Chicken Fingers is set to make its Georgia debut in Roswell this fall – with many more on the way.
Franchisees Shahid Panjwani, Alvin Shah and Seth Bickle plan to bring a total of 18 locations to the metro Atlanta area.
“We did an extensive search of various franchises,” Panjwani told What Now Atlanta. “Coming from a background of franchising, we’re familiar with how everything works. We were searching and finding a brand that made sense to us and something we can get behind. We like what we saw with the leadership group, their product. The chicken market is really hot.”
Panjwani grew up around the industry, with his parents owning Dunkin’ franchises. Shah, whose father owned several quick-service restaurants, has worked as a national mortgage lender. Bickle has worked on both the corporate and ownership side for brands like Subway.
The Roswell restaurant is expected to open in late October or early November.
“We’re excited to be involved in the community and to bring a new concept to Atlanta,” Bickle said.
Layne’s Chicken Fingers first opened in College Station, Texas, in 1994, a location that is still open today. There are currently 17 locations of the concept, with dozens more awarded. In addition to Georgia, Layne’s Chicken Fingers is eyeing growth in Florida, Tennesee and Arkansas.
The menu includes original and spicy chicken fingers, sandwiches, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast, shakes and a variety of sauces, including gravy and the signature Layne’s Sauce.
Panjwani, Shah and Bickle sing the praises of the spicy tenders, which are made spicy with breading rather than sauce.
“Who doesn’t love chicken fingers?” said Bickle.
