Layne's Chicken Fingers

<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=how-to-read-laynes-franchise-disclosure-document-fdd-2726312" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Layne’s Soon to be Famous™ Chicken Fingers</a> has gained a cult-like following thanks to its incredible chicken fingers, secret sauce and warm hospitality. For aspiring franchisees, it’s important to understand what goes on behind the franchise’s success. Those considering joining the&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> family will especially want to know the initial investment required and the potential earnings they can expect.The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is a vital resource in understanding any franchise. Comprising 23 items, the FDD serves as a guide to assess how well a franchise aligns with your business objectives. Let’s walk through Layne’s 2024 FDD to learn more about the brand.Item 1: The Franchisor, Its Predecessors, and Affiliates - This section offers a snapshot of Layne’s business, its history and its place in the industry.<ul><li>Layne’s, a restaurant chain established in 2017, traces its origins back to M.A.G. Systems, Inc., which introduced the concept in 1994. Additionally, Layne’s Kickin Chicken, LLC, serves as the brand’s affiliate.</li></ul>Item 2: Business Experience - This item sheds light on the expertise of Layne’s leadership team, which can be a crucial factor for franchisee success given the necessary ongoing relationship between franchisee and franchisor.<ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-reed-5a724a152/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&amp%3Butm_medium=article&amp%3Butm_campaign=navigating-the-2023-fdd-a-guide-for-potential-laynes-chicken-fingers-franchisees-2724319&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=how-to-read-laynes-franchise-disclosure-document-fdd-2726312" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Garrett Reed</a> – Chief Executive Officer: Reed has been CEO since 2017 and has served as president of Main &amp; Main Capital Group, LLC in Frisco, Texas, since 2004.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/samir-wattar-0a4187a/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&amp%3Butm_medium=article&amp%3Butm_campaign=navigating-the-2023-fdd-a-guide-for-potential-laynes-chicken-fingers-franchisees-2724319&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=how-to-read-laynes-franchise-disclosure-document-fdd-2726312" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Samir Wattar</a> – Chief Operating Officer: Wattar has been the brand’s COO since 2021. He brings over 30 years experience in the restaurant industry to this role, with previous titles of vice president of supply chain for Fuzzy’s Taco Shop from 2019 to 2021, along with vice president of operations, vice president of supply chain and vice president of franchise development with MOOYAH Burgers Fries and Shakes from 2013 to 2018.</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralph-reed-bb293713/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=how-to-read-laynes-franchise-disclosure-document-fdd-2726312" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Ralph Reed</a> – Chief Financial Officer and Manager: Reed became CFO and manager in 2018. He has over 45 years of financial and operations experience. Additionally, he has been the CFO of Main &amp; Main Capital Group, LLC in Frisco, Texas, since 2003.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Item 3: Litigation - This section discloses any litigation history.<ul><li>Layne’s boasts a clean litigation history, indicating stability.</li></ul>Item 4: Bankruptcy - This section reveals any past bankruptcies involving the franchisor or its management. Such a history may suggest financial instability.<ul><li>Layne’s doesn’t have a history of bankruptcy, signaling financial reliability.</li></ul>Item 5: Initial Fees - Prospective franchisees can gauge the initial investment required to join Layne’s, including the franchise fee, which is paid directly to the franchisor.<ul><li>The initial franchise fee for Layne’s is $45,000.</li></ul>Item 6: Other Fees - This section elaborates on ongoing fees, providing clarity on financial obligations.<ul><li>Franchisees must pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5% of gross revenue, a brand development fee of 2% and a local advertising fee of up to 5%.</li></ul>Item 7: Initial Investment - This section lays out a detailed estimate of startup costs, offering transparency on where investment funds will be allocated.<ul><li>The total investment necessary to begin the operation of a Layne’s Franchise ranges from $446,500 to $1,015,000.</li></ul>Item 8: Restrictions on Sources of Products and Services - In this section, the brand specifies approved suppliers, which influence franchisee costs.Item 9: Franchise Owner's Obligations - This item outlines the responsibilities expected from franchisees.Item 10: Financing - This item describes available financing options, which should be a consideration in startup planning.<ul><li>Layne’s does not offer finance assistance.&nbsp;</li></ul>Item 11: Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems and Training - This item describes the training and support offered by the franchisor, as well as advertising expectations.<ul><li>Before Layne’s franchise owners begin operation of their locations, they can expect an initial training program for up to three individuals, on-site opening assistance and a list of approved suppliers.</li><li>The franchisor offers training on a variety of subjects, including a menu overview, management procedures, franchise reporting requirements, safety procedures and inventory management, culminating in 27 hours of classroom training and 84 hours of on-the-job training.&nbsp;</li><li>During the operation of a franchise owner’s restaurant, the franchisee can expect ongoing advice and training programs.</li><li>The brand creates advertising materials in-house and has clear stipulations set out for marketing, soft openings and grand openings of new locations.&nbsp;</li></ul>Item 12: Territory - This item provides a comprehensive overview of the territory rights extended to franchise owners. Prospective franchisees must ensure that these regulations align with the location they are targeting.<ul><li>Layne’s territories are not exclusive, meaning franchisees may face competition from other outlets.</li></ul>Item 13: Trademarks - This item provides information on the franchisor's trademarks, including guidance on when and how to use them.<ul><li>Layne’s iconic trademarks, like the Astro Chicken, are highlighted.</li></ul>Item 14: Patents, Copyrights, and Proprietary Information - This is where the brand will disclose any patents, copyrights or proprietary information owned by the franchisor.Item 15: Obligation to Participate in the Actual Operation of the Franchise Business -&nbsp;This section outlines the obligations of franchise owners concerning their involvement in business operations. Candidates should verify that these requirements align with their desired objectives and work-life balance.<ul><li>Layne’s requires onsite supervision by a designated Operations Manager, ensuring operational quality.</li></ul>Item 16: Restrictions on What the Franchise Owner May Sell - This item describes any limitations on product or service offerings.Item 17: Renewal, Termination, Transfer, and Dispute Resolution - The terms for franchise agreement renewal and termination are clarified.<ul><li>Layne’s offers a 10-year term, with the option for franchise owners in good standing to renew for one additional 10-year term.</li></ul>Item 18: Public Figures - This item indicates any public figures who are employed to promote the brand.<ul><li>Layne’s doesn’t employ public figures in its promotion.</li></ul>Item 19: Financial Performance Representations&nbsp;- Prospective earnings can be estimated based on the financial performance of existing locations, which are disclosed in item 19.<ul><li>Layne’s item 19 in its 2024 FDD includes information on the return on investment on six locations operating in 2023, as indicated below.</li><li>Traditional restaurant total gross revenue:&nbsp;<ul><li>Average: $1,815,606</li><li>Low: $1,449,709</li><li>High: $2,038,639</li></ul></li><li>Non-traditional restaurant total gross revenue:<ul><li>Average: $1,110,477</li><li>Low: $864,774</li><li>High: $1,356,179</li></ul></li><li>A breakdown of food, paper and labor costs are included below:<ul><li>&nbsp;Food cost:<ul><li>Average: 28.6%</li><li>Low: 28.2%</li><li>High: 29.5%</li></ul></li><li>Paper cost:<ul><li>Average: 3.01%</li><li>Low: 2.9 %</li><li>High: 3.08%</li></ul></li><li>Labor cost:<ul><li>Average: 23.67%</li><li>Low: 23.20%</li><li>High: 24.20%</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>Item 20: Outlets and Franchise Owner Information - This item discloses the number of operating outlets, providing insights into recent developments.<ul><li>Layne’s reported a total of 13 locations in operation at the end of 2023, increasing the unit count by four locations from the previous year.</li></ul>Item 21: Financial Statements - Franchisor financial statements are included for assessment.Item 22: Contracts - All required contracts are provided for review with legal counsel and need to be signed by the franchise owner.Item 23: Receipt - This section acknowledges receipt of the FDD, granting candidates time for thorough review before committing.The FDD offers a wealth of information on the operations of a franchise brand. It’s essential for prospective franchisees to study it diligently and seek legal guidance if necessary. With a comprehensive understanding, aspiring franchisees can confidently make informed decisions about joining the Layne’s franchise family.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers">https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers</a>.

How To Read Layne’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)

Layne’s Franchise Potential: Deciphering the FDD Step-by-Step

1851 Franchise

Everything you need to know about a franchise opportunity is located in the FDD. Here is a step-by-step guide to understanding Layne’s FDD for prospective franchisees.

how-to-read-laynes-franchise-disclosure-document-fdd

FRANCHISE INFORMATION

Own a Layne's Chicken Fingers

Layne’s Chicken Fingers Growth

Franchisee Highlight

Why Layne's Chicken Fingers

Superior Training & Support

Learn

Visit Website

LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERS

Facebook

LinkedIn

Instagram

YouTube

SOCIAL MEDIA

Layne’s Chicken Fingers Supports Franchisees With Top-Notch Development Team

 Layne’s Chicken Fingers Signs 44-Unit Deal, Reaches Near-Total Market Saturation Across Home State

Layne’s Chicken Fingers’ First Franchisee Opens 7 Restaurants in 4 Years With 3 More on the Way

LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERS MOST READ STORIES

1851 LOGIN

GROWTH CLUB LOGIN

ABOUT LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERS

CONTACT LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERS

facebook

instagram

twitter

linkedin

youtube

First Name

Last Name

Email

Phone

City Of Interest

Why are you interested in owning?

When do you envision becoming a franchise owner?

Do you have $300,000 without the bank to invest?

READY TO OWN A LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERS?

FRISCO, Texas&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Texas “Born and Breaded” chicken finger franchise, is closing another year of rapid growth. In 2025, the brand had multiple six-figure openings, opened in new states and signed a monumental 44-unit development deal. In support of its continued growth,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> has appointed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cuyler-e-51047a2a/">Cuyler Esposito</a> as vice president of culture operations.&nbsp;With extensive experience as a multi-unit franchisee, Esposito is acutely aware of the value of a strong franchise support structure. In his new role, he will prioritize culture throughout the Layne’s franchise system while serving as a voice for franchisees to ensure Layne’s unique culture remains the foundation of its operational excellence as it scales.“We are building a team that doesn’t just understand the restaurant business but understands the human side of it, too,” said CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-reed-5a724a152">Garrett Reed</a>. “Cuyler has been following our story for years, and as a former food service franchisee, he’s uniquely qualified to support our teams and ensure our values remain a priority as we scale our footprint.”While Cuyler will focus on strong operations, a hallmark of the Layne’s business model, that is not his only guiding principle.“In this industry, it’s easy to get lost in the numbers, but Layne’s is special because everyone here is aligned on the brand’s core pillars,” Esposito said. “My philosophy is ‘culture first, operations very close behind.’ My job is to ensure our franchisees and their teams are operating with that high level of hospitality that separates us from the competition.”As he gets integrated into the system, Esposito says his primary focus will be supporting multi-unit franchisees in building their own internal “benches,” helping them develop teams to support long-term success without friction.“It’s important to me to help franchisees build an operations team so that, as we open up more units, we aren’t scrambling. Much of that will be driven by a focus on a culture of growth and opportunity,” he said. “It’s about identifying people within the organization and helping them grow. I’ve learned that, if you provide a path of growth for an individual, they’re much more motivated for you compared to when you just look at everyone as a number.”For Esposito, the transition to the franchisor side is about more than just strategy; it’s a personal commitment to the people running the restaurants.“It’s not a job; it’s a lifestyle for me,” he said. “I am the liaison between the franchisee and the brand, and my job is to protect both, but anything I can do to help franchisees continue to get better… that’s what my role is.”ABOUT LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERSFounded in 1994 in College Station, the original location became a Texas A&amp;M legend known for its small-town charm, friendly service, iconic chicken fingers and secret sauce. While opening corporate locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the leadership team focused on fine tuning its operations and starting to franchise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Franchise opportunities range from $451,500 to $1,050,000 with different buildout options available. Learn more about franchising&nbsp;<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">here</a>.

Layne's Chicken Fingers - VP of Culture Operations - Cuyler Esposito - 1851 Franchise

Layne’s Chicken Fingers Appoints Cuyler Esposito as Vice President of Culture Operations

laynes-franchise-cuyler-esposito-vp-culture-operations

FRISCO, Texas&nbsp;—&nbsp;After a year of explosive growth,&nbsp;<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Soon to be FamousTM chicken finger franchise, has announced the promotion of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-camp-b7549387">Alex Camp</a> to vice president of operations services. Camp, who has been with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> for two years, steps into his new position as the brand levels up its leadership team to support its rapidly growing footprint. As Layne’s expands well beyond its home state of Texas, Camp will support the brand by overseeing the intersection of corporate infrastructure and real operations throughout the franchise network.“We have always had our eye on proactive development of our support teams, and Alex’s promotion is in line with this philosophy,” said CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-reed-5a724a152">Garrett Reed</a>. “He has been with us through a pivotal season of growth, understands that our leadership team is in the service business, and is committed to interdepartmental connection and cooperation. His new role will ensure that, as we scale, we maintain the agility and operational excellence our franchisees rely on.”Camp describes his role as the organization’s “central nervous system,” designed to hone processes and turn the leadership team’s strategic vision into reality for franchisees.&nbsp;“It’s a multi-departmental role focused on turning thoughts into actions while relaying sensory feedback for critical evaluation,” Camp said. “My goal is to build new feedback pathways as the organization grows. Whether it’s working with IT, marketing, or design and construction, Operations Services ensures we get initiatives across the finish line so the franchisee can even better serve the guest.”While he plans to lean more into the strategic side of the business as it grows, Camp remains committed to a service-first mindset. Across the leadership team, the vision is clear: Protect the brand and protect the franchisee.&nbsp;In his new role, Camp will serve as a voice for franchisees at the corporate table, ensuring that, as the brand grows and brings on new departments and personnel, the profitability and operational success of local owners remain the top priority.“We’re adding incredible talent to our team, from marketing to IT, but we need to ensure all those efforts come together and ‘sing the same song’ for the operators in their markets,” Camp said. “I know the Layne’s model and culture, and now, my focus will be cross-functional support and feedback to ensure the base of the organization — our owners and their teams — have what they need to succeed.”Camp’s promotion comes at the conclusion of another incredible growth year. While Layne’s has seen monumental growth in 2025, including a landmark 44-unit restaurant deal, there’s still more to come.“When I think about where Layne’s was when I first jumped in to where it is now, and where it’s going, it all goes back to the Astro Chicken and the rocketship, the reflection of our brand and Chief Finger Officer,” Camp said. “As much rapid growth as we have currently, we’re just priming the engines. We’re just getting ready. I don’t think we’ve left the takeoff pad just yet. We’re starting to warm up, and all of that rumble and noise and smoke that people can see from a distance … that’s just confirmation that what we’re doing is right, and where we’re going is inevitable.”ABOUT LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERSFounded in 1994 in College Station, the original location became a Texas A&amp;M legend known for its small-town charm, friendly service, iconic chicken fingers and secret sauce. While opening corporate locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the leadership team focused on fine tuning its operations and starting to franchise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Franchise opportunities range from $451,500 to $1,050,000 with different buildout options available. Learn more about franchising&nbsp;<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">here</a>.

Layne's Chicken Fingers - Alex Camp - VP Operations - 1851 Franchise

Layne’s Chicken Fingers Promotes Alex Camp to VP of Operations Services Amidst Record Growth

laynes-franchise-alex-camp-vp-operations-services

With decades of experience and adjustments behind it, Layne’s business model is remarkably scalable. A team of experts has developed resources, processes and layouts that allow Layne’s franchisees to deliver higher-quality menu items with the speed and convenience of a traditional fast-food concept.&nbsp;“A strong focus on operations and our commitment to identifying what we’re good at and growing to be even greater at it have helped us find this careful balance,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/samir-wattar-0a4187a/">Samir Wattar</a>, chief operating officer. “We don’t add new menu items just to say we did, and we stay true to our identity as a chicken finger concept. Maintaining this focus has both created a steadier foundation for franchisees and further strengthened our identity as a standout option in the chicken finger space.”By elevating food quality while keeping the menu and experience affordable, accessible and easy to navigate, Layne’s can appeal to a wider range of guests, too. From college students and budding professionals to young families with kids, there’s something for everyone.While Layne’s brand identity and strong operations serve as a great jumping-off point for new franchisees, there are other considerations necessary to identify the best possible opportunity, starting with the market.<h2>Determining the Right Market for Success</h2>Once you’ve decided Layne’s is a great fit for you, you’ll need to consider how it may fit within your market.Layne’s restaurants thrive in areas with young, active populations, and it performs especially well in college towns. It’s important to analyze the current market landscape to identify areas where there is a clear demand for chicken and room for growth with a brand bringing the speed, quality and experience Layne’s does.&nbsp;The Layne’s leadership team also has rich real estate experience, and it applies this to its franchise development process.“Once we’ve identified a growth market, we’re careful to select prime real estate,” Wattar said. “When a franchisee presents a site to us, we consider whether it’s one we would develop a corporate restaurant on. We don’t just say yes to check the box and begin development on another unit.”During the development process, franchisees can work in conjunction with the leadership team to evaluate territory availability and the potential of certain sites within a market, and they will stay connected with a team of real estate experts throughout the build-out process for expert site selection, design and construction support. For many owners, this additional expertise — beyond the restaurant world — is a key differentiator and one of the primary drivers for partnering with Layne’s.“The menu is fantastic; it has a lot to offer. But from a real estate perspective, they have a great team — from site selection to construction,” said Jake Willett, a multi-unit Arkansas franchisee. “We’ve got a gorgeous building that I can build 20 to 25% cheaper than with other concepts, including building and furniture, fixtures and equipment.”<h2>Training for a Strong Launch and Long-Term Success</h2>While the pathway to signing the franchise agreement and officially becoming a Layne’s franchisee is an important one, the Layne’s team does not discount the journey from signing to grand opening and beyond.&nbsp;In addition to expert support for site selection and build-out, franchisees have access to a marketing playbook and resources that will position them to have a successful Grand Opening and continued growth thereafter.Layne’s also maintains its operational excellence systemwide by ensuring franchisees receive ample training prior to opening and support during the early days of operation.“We have a robust training program to support speed, quality and a great guest experience,” Wattar said. “Our ‘customer’ is not the person sitting in the restaurant eating chicken; it’s the franchisee. We see ourselves as a service organization, and we are dedicated to serving them and their growth as entrepreneurs through ample education and support.”As Layne’s continues along its rapid growth trajectory, this deep commitment to support is a crucial factor in maintaining the strength of the franchisee network and the quality of the Layne’s brand, no matter how big the system grows to be.By viewing the franchisee-franchisor relationship as a partnership, Layne’s builds stronger connections with franchisees and, ultimately, stronger, more successful businesses.“The leadership team has a genuine interest in franchisee profitability, which is key,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mfatany">Masroor Fatany</a>, a multi-unit owner in Houston “They’ve told me not to do certain real estate deals, for example. That’s rare in franchising. Layne’s isn’t chasing unit count as their key metric, and that speaks volumes in our industry.”<h2>Why Now Is the Time To Invest With Layne’s</h2>With its home state nearly sold out,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/laynes-chicken-franchise-multi-brand-owners-2730365#featured">franchisees from major brands</a> flocking to the opportunity and an aggressive development schedule laid out for the coming years, Layne’s is a hot opportunity in the chicken space.&nbsp;As the brand expands, Layne’s stands out as a fun, high-quality option in the crowded chicken market. It offers franchisees a chance to join a fast-growing segment backed by a distinct concept and an engaged, experienced team. The time to claim a prime territory with a rising star in the chicken segment is now. As Layne’s looks toward growth in New Mexico, Minnesota, Virginia, Oklahoma, the Carolinas and more, entrepreneurs have a compelling opportunity to do so with a brand that boasts a cult-like following, simple operations and unwavering support.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers.">https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers.</a>&nbsp;

A Path to Success With Layne's Chicken Fingers Ownership

a-path-to-success-with-laynes-chicken-fingers-how-to-choose-your-market-and-pursue-ownership

What Is the Layne’s Franchise Disclosure Document, and What Will I Find in It?

laynes-franchise-disclosure-document

<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Soon to be Famous™ Texas-based chicken finger franchise, is quickly becoming one of the most-watched names in the fried chicken category. Once a quiet regional favorite, the brand has surged into the national spotlight after securing the No. 6 spot on the Restaurant Business Future 50 list — a recognition driven by a strongest growth trajectories, says&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tastingtable.com/2012019/raising-canes-vs-laynes-chicken-fingers-chain/">Tasting Table</a>.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers">Layne’s</a> opened in College Station in 1994 and remained a small Texas brand for many years. That changed when the company began franchising in 2021. The system grew to eight locations by 2022 and passed 30 stores a few years later. Operators in several states — including Arkansas, Ohio and Wisconsin — are now building out their territories, and the brand expects to be near 80 restaurants by the end of 2026. For a concept that spent years with only a handful of stores, the pace of expansion over the past few years shows how much interest the brand is drawing from both guests and prospective owners.Behind the growth is a menu that champions simplicity done exceptionally well. Layne’s is known for its crispy chicken fingers served with crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast and six signature sauces, including its fan-favorite original Layne’s Sauce. The brand also offers sandwiches, grilled options, wraps and premium hand-spun shakes made with high-quality ice cream. Many locations offer halal options, giving Layne’s an immediate advantage with diners seeking more inclusive menu choices.With its combination of strong unit expansion, operational focus and a menu rooted in quality and comfort, Layne’s Chicken Fingers is earning a place in the national conversation.&nbsp;Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tastingtable.com/2012019/raising-canes-vs-laynes-chicken-fingers-chain/">here</a>.&nbsp;To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers">https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers</a>.

image of laynes chicken the Soon to be Famous™ Texas-based chicken finger franchise

Tasting Table: Layne’s Chicken Fingers Rising Fast in the Fried Chicken Market

tasting-table-laynes-chicken-fingers-growth-2025

FRISCO, Texas&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Texas “Born and Breaded” chicken finger franchise, has officially been named to Entrepreneur’s 2026&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500">Franchise 500</a> list, ranked at No. 366. The recognition highlights&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> rapid expansion, increasing franchise demand and its emergence as an undeniable force in the chicken industry.The Franchise 500 is one of the most competitive and comprehensive franchise rankings, evaluating more than 150 data points surrounding unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power to determine the rankings.“A placement on the Franchise 500 list is a major milestone for us, and it validates the hard work of everyone throughout the Layne’s system,” said CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-reed-5a724a152">Garrett Reed</a>. “We’ve consistently emphasized franchise success, driving both unit-level performance and footprint growth, but we’ve focused on doing so without sacrificing the guest experience. This recognition speaks to our ability to maintain our quality on all fronts, bringing an attractive offering to guests and franchisees alike, as we gain momentum as an up-and-coming national brand.”Layne’s landed on the Franchise 500 after a breakout year. In 2025, the brand grew to 40 open restaurants, and with 300 additional units awarded, it is building a pipeline for a broader national footprint.In addition to rapid expansion, Layne’s continues to see incredible performance in current restaurants with average unit volumes climbing in 2025 and multiple franchisees executing six-figure openings throughout the year.With a focused menu and continued emphasis on efficient operations, Layne’s offers a unique opportunity to enter the booming chicken market with a strong business model, dedicated support structure and long runway to lasting success.“Our placement on the Franchise 500 is a testament to Layne’s quality,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/samir-wattar-0a4187a/">Samir Wattar</a>, chief operating officer. “We’re focused on healthy growth, and we’ve kept a close focus on operations and support as we’ve expanded. We want to make sure we have the resources in place before they’re needed, and this has clearly paid off.”ABOUT LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERSFounded in 1994 in College Station, the original location became a Texas A&amp;M legend known for its small-town charm, friendly service, iconic chicken fingers and secret sauce. While opening corporate locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the leadership team focused on fine tuning its operations and starting to franchise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Franchise opportunities range from $451,500 to $1,050,000 with different buildout options available. Learn more about franchising&nbsp;<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">here</a>.

Photo of Layne's chicken fingers & fries basket

Layne’s Chicken Fingers Ranked No. 366 on Entrepreneur’s 47th Annual Franchise 500

entrepreneur-franchise-500-2026

FRISCO, Texas&nbsp;—&nbsp;Midway through another year of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/laynes-chicken-franchise-growth-2025-2729859#stories">remarkable growth</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Soon to be FamousTM chicken finger franchise, has announced the addition of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliehurley/">Natalie Hurley</a> as vice president of marketing. Hurley joins the brand with nearly 20 years of high impact hospitality and restaurant-industry experience. She will lead brand strategy and growth initiatives as the franchise scales nationwide, bringing a career rooted in hospitality, guest engagement and experiential brand-building to the fast-growing concept.“After a year of incredible momentum, bringing Natalie on board is a great next step in our journey,” said CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-reed-5a724a152">Garrett Reed</a>. “Her hospitality background and deep understanding of what makes brands truly resonate with guests will be instrumental as we continue our evolution from a beloved Texas classic to a household name nationwide. Natalie understands what makes&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> special, and she has the vision and expertise necessary to share that story while keeping the heart of the brand intact.”“At the core, hospitality is hospitality, no matter if it’s full service, hotels or fast food,” Hurley said. “My goal here is to build the brand up even more and carry that through&nbsp;all the work we do at Layne’s.”Hurley’s decision to join Layne’s came after recognizing the shifting restaurant landscape and the brand’s unique position in the market.“The growth potential in the QSR space really interests me,” she said. “What really solidified that interest to me was meeting with Garrett and the team. Garrett was very inspiring and had such passion for this brand. There’s nothing he won’t do for it, and that caught my attention.”Hurley’s immediate focus is on strengthening and maintaining brand cohesion as Layne’s grows beyond its home state.&nbsp;“As we continue to grow nationwide, it’s important that all locations ‘sing the same song,’ tell the same story and have a very strong visual identity,” she said. “Layne’s has the cult following. It has the compelling story built in. My ultimate goal is to ensure that story translates in new markets, too, and to spread the love in the markets we enter.”Balancing brand consistency with local personality will be key to the brand’s expansion strategy, and Hurley will maintain system-wide standards while empowering franchisees to bring localized flair to their locations.“What will keep Layne’s unique as we grow is keeping that localized story,” she said. “You can replicate that passion in different markets while staying true to Layne’s and the core foundation of the brand.”As she grows in her role at Layne’s, Hurley will continue to prioritize fun, embracing the ethos of the Astro Chicken.“We’re in the business of creating great experiences. It should be fun,” she said. “But like the Astro Chicken heading into space, there’s a level of precision and intention behind everything we do. That mix of playful exploration and operational excellence is what will carry Layne’s into its next chapter.”ABOUT LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERSFounded in 1994 in College Station, the original location became a Texas A&amp;M legend known for its small-town charm, friendly service, iconic chicken fingers and secret sauce. While opening corporate locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the leadership team focused on fine tuning its operations and starting to franchise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Franchise opportunities range from $451,500 to $1,050,000 with different buildout options available. Learn more about franchising&nbsp;<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">here</a>.

Natalie Hurley headshot and Layne's Chicken Fingers restaurant

Hospitality Industry Leader Natalie Hurley Joins Layne’s Chicken Fingers to Support Nationwide Expansion

natalie-hurley-vice-president-marketing

<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Soon to be Famous™ Texas-based chicken finger franchise, has been growing steadily for several years, but a new feature from The Daily Meal shows just how far the brand has come. The publication’s list of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thedailymeal.com/2026195/restaurant-chains-take-over-in-2026/">10 Rising Restaurant Chains That Will Take Over in 2026</a> puts&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> alongside some of the most talked-about names in fast casual, pointing to the chain’s sharp rise in both visibility and store count.Founded in College Station in 1994, Layne’s spent decades as a Texas favorite before launching its franchise program in 2021. That decision changed the brand’s trajectory. By mid-2025, Layne’s had reached 30 operating locations — an increase of more than 50% — and the pace has only accelerated since. According to The Daily Meal, Layne’s is on track to surpass 80 units by the end of 2026, fueled by a wave of new franchise agreements.Much of that momentum comes from development commitments made in 2025. The brand signed five new franchise deals in Q3 alone, opening the door to expansion in Oregon, deeper growth in Wisconsin and a major 52-unit buildout across West Texas. These agreements reflect growing demand from experienced operators looking for a scalable model, clean operations and a recognizable customer favorite in a crowded chicken category.The article also pointed to Layne’s staying power. While many chains rise quickly and fade, Layne’s has taken the long view — refining its menu, service and systems for nearly three decades before scaling nationally. That consistency, combined with a focused menu and an authentic Texas-born identity, gives the brand strong footing as it enters new markets.Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thedailymeal.com/2026195/restaurant-chains-take-over-in-2026/">here</a>.&nbsp;To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers">https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers.</a>&nbsp;

image of laynes chicken rising restaurant chain to watch 2026 daily meal

How To Read Layne’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS