Top 5 Benefits of Layne's Chicken Fingers Multiple Prototype Offerings

One size does not fit all when it comes to QSR real estate. 

That’s why Layne’s Chicken Fingers, the fast-growing Texas-based franchise phenomenon with plans to open 100 stores by 2025, has developed three distinct prototypes for its stores — stand alone, end cap and drive-thru only. The idea: Give franchisees maximum flexibility by giving them a space that fits their needs, while taking advantage of incredible vacancy rates caused by the pandemic. 

Garrett Reed, Layne’s CEO, brings deep-rooted expertise in restaurant real estate to the brand, which has had a cult following ever since opening in 1994 on the campus of Texas A&M University. Reed has served on the in-house real estate teams of Starbucks, Corner Bakery and Dunkin’ Donuts before launching his own restaurant real-estate development business in 2004. And he’s determined to take Layne’s from Texas treasure to household name. 

“We have developed an innovative approach to real estate that gives franchisees the ability to find the opportunity that’s right for them,” said Reed. “We believe that by having multiple prototypes to choose from, we are able to match the right partners with the right space.” 

The company leaders believe these store options provide franchisees a lower barrier to entry to take over the best locations, get open quicker and be profitable faster. Here are five ways multiple prototype options help franchisees:

1. Build-Outs Get Done Faster

The traditional Layne’s prototype is designed to plug into a second-generation space, meaning a space that was formerly a restaurant. That means franchisees can re-use much of the infrastructure that’s already in place, saving in build-out costs as well as getting open faster — sometimes in as little as six months. 

2. The Barrier to Entry Is Lower

With multiple prototypes available, Layne’s has developed varying levels of entry fees for franchisees. For instance, a franchisee can buy their own building outright, or buy half of it if that fits their budget. 

3. Franchisees Get Flexibility 

Right now, commercial real estate is hurting. Landlords are looking to replace the tenants who vacated during the pandemic. That means franchisees can find the right prototype to fit opportunities that are available right now, rather than conducting a long, drawn-out real estate search for a needle in a haystack. 

4. Drive-Thru Sales Are Zooming

As the pandemic accelerated the shift to off-premise dining, drive-thru became the most important (and profitable) sales channel for many operators. QSRs experienced double-digit growth in drive-thrus, both in standalone and end-cap positions. With drive-thru available in all prototypes, Layne’s franchisees can capitalize on the drive-thru demand. 

5. Faster Path to Profitability

The sooner that a restaurant can go from the drawing board to serving customers, the faster franchisees see a return on their investment. So by offering flexible options that allow franchisees to take advantage of real estate opportunities, increase drive-thru sales and find the store that meets their budget, Layne’s franchisees have faster ramp-up possibilities. 

Total franchise investments range from $737,000 to $1,217,500. Learn more about franchising here: https://www.layneschickenfingers.com/franchising/