Franchise Deep Dive: Dave’s Hot Chicken Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

Dave’s Hot Chicken has become one of America’s fastest-growing, fast-casual restaurant franchises as a result of its flavorful chicken and vibrant social media presence.

By Jeff DwyerStaff Writer

8:08AM • 09/11/23

LAST UPDATED: September 1, 2023
FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://www.daveshotchicken.com/franchising/
NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 100+
REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $615,800 to $1,825,000
REPORTED ROI (Item 19): N/A

Dave’s Hot Chicken is a fast-casual chicken concept that specializes in Nashville-style spicy and flavorful chicken. The restaurant features a simple menu consisting of four chicken combo meals that come in different spice levels, ranging from no spice to “The Reaper.”

Dave’s Hot Chicken, headquartered in Pasadena, California, was first established as a pop-up stand in Los Angeles in 2017 by best friends Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan and Tommy and Gary Rubenyan, who came together with just $900 to set up a small food stand. The stand quickly gained popularity. Just one year later, an official Dave’s Hot Chicken restaurant was opened.

As a result of its offerings, Dave’s Hot Chicken has gained significant traction on social media and boasts nearly one million followers on Instagram.

How Many Dave’s Hot Chicken Locations Are There?

As of September 2023, there are more than 100 Dave’s Hot Chicken locations spanning four countries, including the United States, Canada, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. According to third-party sources, as Dave’s Hot Chicken continues to grow, the brand is reportedly aiming to open between 70 and 100 locations annually for the next few years.

What Is Dave’s Hot Chicken’s Business Model?

Dave’s Hot Chicken’s business model is solely focused on providing customers with high-quality chicken featuring bold and “crave-able flavors.” The brand’s menu features a variety of chicken tenders and sliders that come in seven different heat levels, as well as sides such as fries, mac and cheese, and kale slaw.

As a fast-casual concept, Dave’s Hot Chicken’s dining model emphasizes convenience and speed, making it a popular choice for those seeking quick and flavorful meals. Guests can place their orders online or at their nearest location. The brand also has a proprietary app that provides users with “frequent fryer points,” allowing them to earn rewards for every dollar they spend.

How Much Can Dave’s Hot Chicken Franchise Owners Make?

Dave’s Hot Chicken does not have a publicly available Item 19. To learn more, contact the team about reading the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which will state the total earnings of any company or franchise-owned unit as a reference.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Dave’s Hot Chicken?

The initial investment required to open a Dave’s Hot Chicken franchise ranges from $615,800 to $1,825,000. Prospective franchise owners must also actively own at least five other fast-casual franchise restaurants in the market area of interest. However, those interested in operating a Dave’s Hot Chicken franchise must not currently have ownership of a fried chicken concept.

What Is the Franchise Fee for Dave’s Hot Chicken?

The initial franchise fee required to open a Dave’s Hot Chicken franchise is $40K. Interested candidates must also have at least $2.5 million in liquid assets and a minimum net worth of $5 million.

Who’s On Dave’s Hot Chicken’s Leadership Team?

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About Dave’s Hot Chicken?

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