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 Signs Landmark 44-Restaurant Deal, Shatters Records in Monumental Third Quarter

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

Daily Meal: Layne’s Chicken Fingers Earns National Attention as a Breakout Brand for 2026

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?

<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the rapidly growing chicken finger franchise, built a cult following with its original restaurants in College Station, Texas. For many guests, the draw was the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere within the four walls. For the brand leadership, a key part of&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> growth and success has been recognizing, maintaining and even further developing this culture, and it starts at the top.“The culture of an organization is the lifeblood,” said CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-reed-5a724a152">Garrett Reed</a>. “It determines how a business runs, and whatever culture exists at the top bleeds all the way down to the people working in the drive-thru windows.”Reed’s application of this philosophy starts with how he views the organization.<h2>The ‘One of Everybody’ Mindset</h2>Rather than an authoritative culture that leans on a “What I say goes” mentality, Reed said he views himself as a peer. He’s not superior; he just has different responsibilities.“I’m just one of everybody,” he said. “I truly don’t see myself as any better than anyone. And culture is built in those moments where we’re all a part of ‘everybody.’ Culture is built in the break room, in cubicles, behind the fryers and when you’re taking the trash out to the dumpster. Culture is ‘Here’s what’s going on in my life.’ Culture is listening to people’s ideas.”By breaking the commonly accepted corporate hierarchy, Reed encourages an environment where everyone throughout the Layne’s system contributes to the culture. It’s a culture of the people, not a culture mandated by the C-suite or a mural on the wall.&nbsp;This also keeps lines of communication open, whether it’s between fellow franchisees, between members of the home office and franchisees, or between franchisees and their teams.<h2>Reed’s Open-Door (And Occupied-Couch) Policy</h2>As a part of Layne’s culture of transparency and communication, the leadership team has an “open-door policy.” For Reed, this means his office door is truly open throughout the day, welcoming people from all levels of the organization to visit.“I step out from my office, and when I come back, there will be three people sitting in there,” he said. “I’ve got a couch and two chairs, and they’re just always full. We’re always having conversations.”This laid-back approach and real accessibility removes the friction and fear often associated with C-suite leaders, creating an environment where people feel compelled to contribute.“Our teams love this about Layne’s,” he said. “How many organizations can you walk into the CEO’s office and say ‘Hey, what’s up? Tell me about what’s going on’?”Reed also makes a point to welcome discussions about a range of topics, both in his office and beyond. By providing business direction, but also mentorship, encouragement and even life advice for young team members seeking support, Reed maintains his position as not just a boss, but a true leader, and drives forward Layne’s culture of care.<h2>Culture in Practice</h2>Open-door policies and “like a family” cultures are common selling points. The difference with Layne’s is that it’s real.“We call it GAF — give a f***,” Reed said. “That’s all it is. Do you actually care about the people? You can’t fake that. You’ve got to really love your people at the end of the day. If you don’t love them, they know.”Maintaining this culture requires careful hiring and an ability to gauge whether a candidate will lean into the culture rather than detract from it. Much of the time, this comes down to a gut instinct.“I can teach someone how to do the job,” Reed said. “I’ve got to be able to see it in their eyes that they believe in us and believe in Layne’s. When someone believes in you, they’re going to go to battle for you.”As Reed has built the Layne’s team, he has remained dedicated to protecting the culture that makes Layne’s unique. Now, Layne’s culture and performance are results of a leadership team that’s authentic, accessible and incredibly human. And, while it can be intangible and hard to measure, Reed always returns to one simple fact: “The culture is driven down by just&nbsp;caring.”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;

Photo of Layne's Chicken Fingers CEO Garrett Reed wearing Layne's hat and jacket

Layne’s Chicken Fingers CEO Drives Culture of Care and Collaboration From the Top Down

garrett-reed-culture

The fast food chicken market is one of the most lucrative and competitive segments in franchising. While many markets are saturated by major brands,&nbsp;<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Soon to be FamousTM chicken finger franchise, blends a 30-year legacy with an explosive growth trajectory.For entrepreneurs looking for a ground-level opportunity backed by a team of experts,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> is a standout solution. Here’s how it stands out from the rest of the flock.<h2>A Real Estate Company First</h2>Layne’s has a team of real estate experts at the helm. In the restaurant space, location is key, and the team understands this.Rather than approving every site that comes their way in an effort to get restaurants open, the development team carefully analyzes the data and provides realistic, forward-thinking feedback to guide franchisees in making one of the most important decisions that can be made for a restaurant.“We treat our relationships with our franchisees as true partnerships,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4qDwJOJoe0">Samir Wattar</a>, chief operating officer. “We know that our success hinges on their success, and our primary focus is to protect both the brand at large and each individual franchisee. Sometimes, that means saying ‘No.’ I like to say, ‘I tell my kids no all the time. It doesn’t mean I don’t love them; I just have their best interests in mind.’”And once the site is selected, Layne’s team of experts focuses on an incredible build-out. With design and construction support available through each step of the process, the team walks hand-in-hand with franchisees as they build out an efficient, but still aesthetically pleasing, restaurant.<h2>A Ground-Level Opportunity in a Booming Industry</h2>Layne’s presents a unique combination of growth potential and brand maturity in the booming chicken space. Positioning themselves as “originators, not imitators,” the Layne’s leadership team draws on over 30 years of experience to inform a rapidly growing brand.“We’re opening a restaurant almost every week,” Wattar said. “With over 30 restaurants open and another 300 sold, we’re quickly growing, but we also have plenty of opportunity in key markets.”In the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/fast-food-chicken-restaurants/4027/">over $63 billion</a> fast food chicken market, many brands have already saturated key markets nationwide. While Layne’s is experiencing rapid growth, which is a testament to the strength of the investment, it still has space to pursue growth with qualified operators.<h2>Hands-On Support From a Team of Experts</h2>Layne’s prides itself on having great food and even better guest service, and this in-restaruant performance is driven by proper onboarding, training and ongoing support for each and every restaurant team.Layne’s proactively builds its support infrastructure to ensure the resources are available before they’re needed.“We have carefully planned our manpower,” Wattar said. “Every time we open two or three restaurants, we have a plan for the resources we’ll add to the mix. We’re always thinking about it ahead of time. So, even though we’re a small company, we support our franchisees like a big company would.”Wattar also highlights the ratio of support staff to franchise owners. With 28 owners in the system, currently representing 30 operating restaurants, Layne’s has a support team of 26<h2>Strategic Operational Model for Efficiency and Financial Benefit</h2>“It’s all about the franchisee,” Wattar said. “Everyone in the home office is not in the restaurant business; we’re in the service business. Our franchisees pay us royalties to provide services.”One of the key services the Layne’s team provides is operational strategy and support. From restaurant design to supply chain negotiations, Layne’s has honed the model to help franchisees make the most of their investments.This manifests in a few key ways.Layne’s newest prototype&nbsp;was designed with the efficient use of space and streamlined daily operations in mind, even considering which kitchen layout would require the fewest number of steps for team members to complete their tasks.Straightforward menu focus&nbsp;keeps Layne’s true to what it’s known and loved for while&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/how-laynes-built-a-restaurant-model-that-only-has-125-items-including-toilet-paper-2728484#stories">lightening the inventory load</a> for franchisees. This can reduce food waste, decrease the amount of time spent on inventory and ordering, and help team members focus on the highest quality of a few key offerings.Careful supply chain management, led by a seasoned operations professional, helps franchisees save time and money. Wattar remains in close contact with suppliers on a consistent basis, working to negotiate contracts ahead of time and funnel any resulting perks directly to the franchisees.“I had a call with a vendor earlier this year, and I learned that we would be able to get some rebates,” he said. “The vendor said, ‘Okay, so we will cut you a check at the end of each quarter.’ I told him, ‘No, you’ll cut my franchisees their checks at the end of each quarter.’”<h2>Superior Service and Product That Drives a Cult-Like Following</h2>An investment in Layne’s is an investment in legacy, tradition and a deeply beloved brand.Layne’s prides itself on providing service 15 times better than its food, and given it already has the “best damn chicken fingers,” its service naturally stands out.While the brand began its legacy in College Station, Texas, it has grown to have fans in markets nationwide. People flock to Layne’s when they return to College Station for Texas A&amp;M football games, and fans have even gotten married in Layne’s shirts.This loyalty extends beyond original fans to include those who try and immediately become fond of Layne’s. The brand has even seen sales in newer restaurants spike&nbsp;after a competitor opens nearby.While the chicken industry, as a whole, is booming, investing in Layne’s positions entrepreneurs to differentiate themselves even further.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 fingers franchise in 2026 fast food chicken market opportunity

5 Reasons to Invest in a Layne’s Chicken Fingers Franchise for 2026

why-invest

After building a successful multi-unit footprint with&nbsp;<a href="https://mooyahfranchise.com/">MOOYAH Burgers, Fries &amp; Shakes</a>, brothers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-bergeson-31013314">Josh</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucasbergeson">Luke Bergeson</a> began looking for a new concept that would help them diversify. They wanted a brand that offered operational efficiency without sacrificing quality, and Soon to be FamousTM&nbsp;<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the fast-growing chicken franchise, fit the bill.“We decided that, if we were going to be in such a saturated market, we needed to have the best chicken to be able to say we are as good as or better than everybody else in this space,” Luke said. “We did a lot of side-by-side comparisons with other chicken tender concepts, and nothing stood up to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a>.”<h2>Operational Simplicity: The “Easiest $8,000” in a Day</h2>While Layne’s superior product hooked the Bergesons during the due diligence phase, the operational model is what stands out from a strategic and operational standpoint. Coming from concepts that required managing complex ticket items and diverse menus with many inventory items, Layne’s clear focus on consistent delivery of what it’s great at creating a new level of efficiency for the teams.After what felt like a slow dinner hour during their soft opening in Janesville, Luke checked the sales figures and was stunned to see they were already at $8,000.“I thought, ‘This is the easiest $8,000 I’ve ever seen,’” Luke said. “We’ve done $8,000 a day in other concepts, and I just couldn’t believe it. We said the same thing with 10, 12, 14, 16 and 18 thousand dollars: ‘It shouldn’t be this easy.’ It almost seemed like it was too good to be true, which often is the case, but this is one of those rare instances where it has not proven to be too good to be true.”The brand’s streamlined model is another key contributor here. At the franchisor level, Layne’s is always looking for ways to simplify operations or cut down on unnecessary steps. This, combined with strong teams at the restaurant level, keeps ticket times lower and allows operators to do $10,000-plus days without too much of a challenge.&nbsp;“We focus on operations and look for a system that our team can execute well — whether it’s busy or slow,” Josh said. “Making the food and serving the guests is so streamlined, it’s hard to believe it’s that easy.”<h2>Trust in Leadership</h2>Beyond the four walls of the restaurants, the Bergesons’ choice to scale was largely driven by a deep trust in the Layne’s team and systemwide infrastructure. Having known Layne’s chief operating officer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/samir-wattar-0a4187a/">Samir Wattar</a>, from prior business ventures, they were excited about the supply chain and operations expertise he brings to the group. They were also excited to see the “founder-led mentality” everyone in the system leans into.By prioritizing franchisee profitability and brand integrity over just selling units, the Layne’s leadership team has developed a healthy system and built deep trust with owners who know there is a shared vision across all levels of the brand. This approach creates a true partnership where the franchisor is actively involved in franchisees’ success, from real estate selection to ongoing operations, and this boosted the Bergesons’ confidence even further.<h2>The “First Mover” Advantage</h2>As the Bergesons have solidified their presence in their community, they’ve seen just how impactful the Layne’s brand and experience has been. In Janesville, the team was expecting a challenge when a major competitor opened directly across the street, but because they had already become a part of the community and proven their speed, quality and level of service, it was a non-issue.“Raising Cane’s opened earlier this year,” Josh said. “We knew they were coming, and we thought we were certainly going to take a hit — it was just a question of how much. But when they opened directly across the street from us, we actually ended up seeing a little bit of an increase in sales.”Months later, the Janesville location maintains steady performance with no dip to recover from.This resilience speaks to the deep loyalty and positive perception they’ve already built with Layne’s, particularly during the initial period of market exclusivity. As they grow, being the “first mover” to bring a new chicken concept to a local market, will continue to be a key driver of success.<h2>Aggressive Expansion Across Wisconsin</h2>With a proven product, a focused leadership team and a model that thrives even in the face of direct competition, the Bergesons are confident in the Layne’s opportunity and continue to move full steam ahead.Following the successful launch of the Janesville restaurant, they opened another location in Appleton, and they’re currently in the process of developing additional locations in Bellevue, Oshkosh and Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. In addition to the unit count increase that comes with this growth, the Bergesons are focused on bringing a trusted product to their communities while creating more opportunities for their teams.“We’ve always said that, whatever we sell, we want to be able to stand behind it,” Luke said. “We have to be best-in-class at whatever we’re doing.”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;

Why These MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes Franchisees Are Betting Big on Layne's Chicken Fingers

mooyah-owners-choose-laynes

FRISCO, Texas&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Texas “born and breaded” chicken finger franchise with 30 open restaurants and another 300 sold, was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/future-50-2025/laynes-chicken-fingers">ranked No. 6</a> on Restaurant Business’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/future-50-2025">2025 Future 50</a> list. A compilation of growing restaurant concepts, the ranking looks at brands that have seen consistent unit count and sales growth. The brands are then ranked based on their 2024 systemwide sales.This year, chicken concepts dominated the list, and&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> rose to the top.“We’re honored to have been ranked highly on the Restaurant Business Future 50 list,” said CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-reed-5a724a152/">Garrett Reed</a>. “We have consistently emphasized the financial strength of our model, focusing on positioning our franchisees for success, but never at the expense of the guest experience or franchisee support.”Restaurant Business reports that, in 2024, Layne’s saw a year-over-year unit increase of 50% and a year-over-year sales increase of 67%. With 2024 systemwide sales sitting at $30 million, it’s clear the affinity for Layne’s is growing, and as its unit growth exposes it to new guests in new markets, franchisees are experiencing exponential financial returns.“As we continue our expansion, we’re working to reach the 45-unit mark by the end of the year and award additional multi-unit franchise agreements,” Reed said. “Throughout this growth, we remain committed to growing the team at our home office, too, to ensure the scaffolding is there before we need it. By staying true to our commitment to protect the brand and protect the franchisee, I’m optimistic about the future of Layne’s and our ability to continue along the remarkable footprint and financial growth trajectory that earned us recognition by Restaurant Business.”Layne’s dedication to finding what it’s good at (chicken fingers) and becoming great at it, careful supply chain management, unwavering franchisee support and guest service “15 times better” than the food itself has created a truly unique franchise opportunity, setting the stage for driven entrepreneurs to grow with an outstanding concept in the high-demand chicken space.&nbsp;With ongoing growth on the horizon, Layne’s is targeting markets in Virginia, Oklahoma, Indiana, Florida and more.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 Ranked No. 6 on Restaurant Business Future 50 Ranking

laynes-chicken-fingers-restaurant-business-future-50

<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the rapidly growing Texas “Born and Breaded” chicken finger franchise, is expanding nationally, offering a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to break into the chicken space with a model that’s been proven over the span of decades but still offers plenty of runway for meaningful scale. For many franchisees, though, understanding the business model itself is just one of the steps toward ownership. They also need to know how much it costs.According to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the total investment necessary to begin the operation of a Layne’s restaurant ranges from $451,500 to $1,050,000. This total investment is broken down into the following costs, outlined in Item 7 of the FDD:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Type of Expenditure</td><td>Min</td><td>Max</td></tr><tr><td>Initial Franchise Fee</td><td>$45,000</td><td>$45,000</td></tr><tr><td>Lease Deposit &amp; Rent (3 Months)</td><td>$7,500</td><td>$50,000</td></tr><tr><td>Utility Deposits</td><td>$5,000</td><td>$5,000</td></tr><tr><td>Government Licenses &amp; Permits</td><td>$1,500</td><td>$10,000</td></tr><tr><td>Blueprints &amp; Plans</td><td>$10,000</td><td>$50,000</td></tr><tr><td>Leasehold Improvements</td><td>$150,000</td><td>$400,000</td></tr><tr><td>Signage &amp; Graphics</td><td>$7,000</td><td>$70,000</td></tr><tr><td>Furniture &amp; Fixtures</td><td>$10,000</td><td>$30,000</td></tr><tr><td>Point of Sale System</td><td>$8,000</td><td>$15,000</td></tr><tr><td>Computer Hardware &amp; Software</td><td>$3,500</td><td>$7,500</td></tr><tr><td>Kitchen Equipment &amp; Smallwares</td><td>$150,000</td><td>$250,000</td></tr><tr><td>Professional Services</td><td>$5,000</td><td>$7,500</td></tr><tr><td>Initial Inventory</td><td>$7,500</td><td>$15,000</td></tr><tr><td>Smallwares, Uniforms &amp; Initial Suppliers</td><td>$7,000</td><td>$15,000</td></tr><tr><td>Insurance</td><td>$5,000</td><td>$15,000</td></tr><tr><td>Travel and Related Expenses While Training</td><td>$2,000</td><td>$5,000</td></tr><tr><td>Initial Opening Assistance</td><td>$2,500</td><td>$5,000</td></tr><tr><td>Grand Opening Marketing</td><td>$10,000</td><td>$25,000</td></tr><tr><td>Additional Funds (3 Months)</td><td>$15,000</td><td>$30,000</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>On an ongoing basis, Layne’s franchisees should also plan for the following costs, outlined in Item 6:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Type of Fee</td><td>Amount</td></tr><tr><td>Royalty Fee</td><td>5% of gross revenue/week</td></tr><tr><td>Brand Development Fund</td><td>2% of gross revenue/month</td></tr><tr><td>Local Marketing Spend</td><td>1% of gross revenue/quarter</td></tr><tr><td>POS System Maintenance Fee</td><td>$4,800 - $7,200/year</td></tr><tr><td>Technology Fee</td><td>$500/month</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Of course, understanding the total initial investment is just part of the picture. Layne’s has built an impressive support structure and embraced a super simple operational model, ensuring franchisees get the most payoff for each dollar invested.&nbsp;With the right buildout and a proven playbook, Layne’s owners can get to positive cash flow faster. The brand’s unit volumes back that up, with some top-performing restaurants topping&nbsp; $2.2 million in 2024.Now, with the chicken frenzy continuing, there has never been a better time to invest. Demand for chicken is high, but many legacy brands have already saturated the market. The Soon to be Famous™ concept brings a top-performing model with strong availability to prime markets nationwide, and it does so with an optimized investment structure and proven revenue model.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;

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Layne's Chicken Fingers Franchise?

franchise-cost

<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the Soon to be FamousTM chicken finger franchise, has built a financially sound model by focusing on streamlined operations and a surprisingly simple philosophy: Find what you’re good at and become great at it.&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> has stayed away from broad, complex menus and focused intently on offering great chicken fingers and an even better guest experience. These priorities, combined with the continued support of the corporate team, allow franchisees to scale effectively and reach impressive revenue benchmarks relatively easily.“We’re consistently blown away by the numbers our franchisees are doing in the early days and weeks of operations,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/samir-wattar-0a4187a/">Samir Wattar</a>, chief operating officer. “We used to be ecstatic when a franchisee had a six-figure opening, and now, that has become the norm, which is very exciting. And even better, our restaurants don’t see a major drop-off after the excitement of the opening dies down. They’re leveling out at really strong numbers.”<h2>Operational Efficiency Drives Easy Revenue</h2>The primary driver behind Layne’s financial performance is an operational model that’s specifically built for volume. With decades of restaurant experience, Wattar has honed in on the details of daily operations, looking at things like the number of inventory items each Layne’s requires and considering details as fine as which kitchen layout requires the fewest number of steps for each team member as they complete daily tasks.This model clears a path for high daily sales without the hectic atmosphere that some quick-service brands require.<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucasbergeson">Lucas Bergeson</a>, a multi-unit franchisee in Wisconsin, experienced this firsthand during a soft opening. After what felt like a slow start to the day, he checked sales numbers and was surprised to see the location had already hit $8,000 by the end of the dinner hour.“I thought, ‘This is the easiest $8,000 I’ve ever seen,’” he said. “We’ve done $8,000 a day in other concepts, and I just couldn’t believe it. We’ve said the same thing with 10, 12, 14, 16 and 18 thousand dollars: ‘It shouldn’t be this easy.’ It almost seemed like it was too good to be true, but this is one of those rare instances where it has not proven to be too good to be true.”<h2>High-Volume Openings Continue To Validate Layne’s Financials</h2>Bergeson’s experience with an “easy $8,000” during his soft opening is not an anomaly. Franchisees across various markets consistently see this level of performance in their early days.In Warrenton, Virginia,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/khurram-burney-5545761b6/">Khurram Burney</a> saw incredible results within his first week of operations.&nbsp;“The community’s response to the new restaurant was so strong that there were cars backed up onto the highway,” he said. “There were cars flowing out of the parking lot, and the dining room was packed.”<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-thomas-0875b780">Taylor Thomas</a>, a multi-unit Texas franchisee, shared a similar story from his recent opening in Nacogdoches.&nbsp;“We spoke with the Layne’s corporate team to try to get an idea of what to expect,” Thomas said. “They told us what we might see in the first week, and we beat that on day three.”Strong operations and clear validation from the communities Layne’s enters have consistently driven early success for franchisees, but it’s important to note that this volume and financial stability extend well beyond the excitement of the early days to create high-performing restaurants year-round.<h2>How Much Can I Make With a Layne’s Franchise?</h2>Layne’s 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document backs these anecdotes up with annual numbers from six traditional standalone restaurants and four non-traditional restaurants in 2024.<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Average</td><td>Low</td><td>Median</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>Traditional Restaurant Total Gross Revenue</td><td>$1,983,256</td><td>$1,614,592</td><td>$1,987,510</td><td>$2,257,743</td></tr><tr><td>Non-Traditional Restaurant Total Gross Revenue</td><td>$1,604,953</td><td>$773,267</td><td>$1,642,639</td><td>$2,372,824</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>In 2024, Layne’s 10 franchised restaurants saw the following average cost of goods sold:<ul><li>Food Cost:&nbsp;29.5%</li><li>Paper Cost:&nbsp;3%</li><li>Labor Cost:&nbsp;24.2%</li></ul>The FDD offers a clear view of the brand’s financials, including strong top-line revenue and healthy margins, all backed up by a value-engineered model. This positions franchisees to create high volume and drive much of that cash flow back to their bottom line.“We know we’re great at chicken fingers, and our goal is to continue being great. We’re not going to overcomplicate it or chase a trend,” Wattar said. “Keeping the business lean allows us to further hone our model and processes and create an even more productive, enjoyable experience for high-volume teams and operators.”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;

How Much Can You Make as a Layne's Chicken Fingers Franchisee?

franchise-earnings-2025

FRISCO, Texas&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a href="http://layneschickenfranchising.com">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a>, the rapidly growing chicken finger franchise, closed out 2025 with historic growth, doubling its restaurant count and achieving record financial performance. Entering 2026 with 40 restaurants open and 10 new franchise owners in the system,&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/layneschickenfingers/info">Layne’s</a> is prepared for another landmark year as it works toward the longer-term vision of 300 units by 2030.Layne’s momentum has been reinforced by significant industry recognition. The brand was ranked&nbsp;<a href="https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/future-50-2025/laynes-chicken-fingers">No. 6 on Restaurant Business’s 2025 Future 50 list</a>, which recognizes emerging restaurant concepts demonstrating strong unit growth and systemwide sales performance. According to Restaurant Business, Layne’s posted a 50% year-over-year unit increase and a 67% increase in systemwide sales, with 2024 systemwide revenue reaching $30 million, placing the brand among the fastest-growing concepts in the country.Layne’s has also been named to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500">Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500® list</a>, ranking No. 366, further highlighting the brand’s rapid expansion, increasing franchise demand and emergence as a force within the competitive chicken category.&nbsp;“We opened 21 restaurants last year, which is 110% growth over the prior year,” said CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-reed-5a724a152/">Garrett Reed</a>. “We increased average unit volume across the system, and we brought on 10 new franchisees for a total of 40 restaurants awarded. We also developed the organization further to provide better support to our franchisees.”Layne’s impressive growth included a monumental 44-unit agreement, a 15-unit expansion by Wisconsin franchise owners and agreements signed by franchisees of other major brands like Wendy’s and Arby’s.In line with the unit growth, Layne’s also welcomed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliehurley/">Natalie Hurley</a> as vice president of brand marketing and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cuyler-e-51047a2a/">Cuyler Esposito</a> as vice president of culture and operations and promoted&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-camp-b7549387">Alex Camp</a> to vice president of operations services.“From day one, our goal wasn’t to sell franchises; our goal was to build an organization that provides services to the franchisees, and we’ve done that every year,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/samir-wattar-0a4187a/">Samir Wattar</a>, chief operating officer. “If you look at our manpower growth compared to our restaurant growth, that’s clear. We now have 40 restaurants open, and we have 28 employees in the home office. We’re building a support organization for a brand that we’re really passionate about.”As Layne’s looks toward 2026, the team is looking forward to an additional 40 restaurant openings, continued revenue growth and thoughtful footprint expansion. With a powerful support team and strong logistical framework, Layne’s maintains its focus on strategic national growth, emphasizing franchisee alignment and cultural fits on the path to 300 units.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>.

Close-up photo of person holding Layne's tender sandwich, wearing Layne's shirt

Layne’s Chicken Fingers Doubles Footprint, Welcomes 10 New Franchisees to the System in 2025 as It Ramps up for Another Record-Breaking Year

franchise-growth-2025

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

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS