Rice MBA and Logistics Professional Step Into Business Ownership With 12-Plus-Unit Layne’s Agreement

As a former Texas A&M student, Dylan White knew and loved Layne’s Soon to be Famous™ Chicken Fingers. He had even taken his now-wife, Hannah, to the original College Station location. When the two learned that the growing concept was offering franchises, they signed a multi-unit agreement to develop Layne’s in San Antonio and build a meaningful future for their family.

Now, they’re developing 12 restaurants in the greater San Antonio area, with plans to open their first before the end of the year.

1851 Franchise spoke with Dylan and Hannah to learn more about their journey into franchising and plans for the future.

1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Dylan: I got my engineering degree from Texas A&M and started my career in the energy industry. I've always wanted to be a business owner and attended Rice to get my MBA and learn more about entrepreneurship to follow my dreams. I waited for an opportunity that genuinely excited me, and when I saw that Layne’s was available, I knew that was the opportunity I was looking for.

Hannah: My background is in supply chain and logistics. Going into the chicken industry was not something that I ever really thought we would do, but once we started looking into it, I got on board.

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Dylan: I viewed franchising as a business in a box with well-developed structure that can help business owners succeed at starting a business. My journey has just started as a franchisee and I’m learning more every day. The decision to become a franchisee should be built on trust and partnership with the franchisor. This is what we found with the Layne’s team and why we chose to partner with them.

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Dylan: I fell in love with Layne’s during my time at College Station. Layne’s chicken fingers are really good and perfect for tailgating during football games. The Layne’s team has a clear vision to grow the brand and we’re excited to partner with them to fulfill that vision.

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth? 

Dylan: We have the opportunity to develop 12-plus restaurants in our territory. Initially, we plan to open one store a year for the first few years and then accelerate the pace a bit. 

1851: What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?

Dylan: I’m a veteran, and I know San Antonio has a large military presence. We’re excited to be part of that community and bring delicious food to San Antonio. 

Hannah: We want to make an impact on the lives of the employees that we work with. We’re excited to grow and promote talent internally.

1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming a franchise owner?

Dylan: Do your research and speak to seasoned franchise owners. They’ll be a great contact for advice as you navigate the business world. Most importantly, partner with a brand you love!

ABOUT LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERS

Founded in 1994 in College Station, the original location became a Texas A&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.  

Franchise opportunities range from $545,000 to $1,190,000 with different buildout options available. Learn more about franchising here.