News Summary
Houston TX Hot Chicken (HHC) has achieved remarkable growth, expanding to 25 locations with plans for aggressive future growth, including a franchise rollout. Founded during the COVID-19 lockdown, the vibrant brand has garnered a loyal following, appealing to a younger demographic. With high standards in food quality and engaging marketing strategies, the chain is poised to continue its expansion across multiple states and internationally, featuring unique dining aesthetics and a commitment to customer experience.
Houston, TX Hot Chicken Expands Rapidly, Celebrating 25 Locations and Ambitious Growth Plans
Houston TX Hot Chicken (HHC) has announced a stunning expansion, topping off 2024 with a total of 25 locations. This marks an impressive 79% year-over-year increase in the number of restaurants, with plans to continue doubling locations annually for the foreseeable future. The growing chain is focused on maintaining high standards, prioritizing all-natural, never-frozen chicken along with premium ingredients.
Founded by Edmond Barseghian, a Swedish-Armenian race car driver and entrepreneur, HHC began as a home cooking experiment to create hot chicken sandwiches during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The first HHC restaurant was launched in Las Vegas in 2021, and since then, the company has achieved record growth. There are plans for even more aggressive expansion as the brand prepares for a major franchise rollout, including over 100 franchises sold across multiple states and internationally, including locations in Puerto Rico and the U.K.
Dining Experience and Brand Aesthetics
Restaurants feature a vibrant atmosphere with racing-themed murals, neon lights, illuminated countertops, and upbeat music. This aesthetic is tailored to attract the 16-35 age demographic, positioning HHC as a prime nighttime destination for fans of hot chicken sandwiches. The brand places a strong emphasis on creating a complete sensory experience, engaging customers beyond just the food and enhancing the overall dining experience.
The signature item has garnered recognition as “the best chicken sandwich,” showcasing the brand’s commitment to flavor and quality. Under the leadership of Brian Simowitz, who previously helped scale Slim Chickens to over 200 locations, HHC has seen a 11% increase in profitability through operational improvements.
Marketing Strategy and Influencer Engagement
HHC utilizes a dynamic marketing strategy that includes viral social media content. A recent promotional video achieved 45 million views, contributing to the brand’s popularity among potential customers. Influencer partnerships have also played a significant role in promotion, with TikTok star Keith Lee endorsing the restaurant’s spiciest menu item, which comes with a waiver requirement for those daring enough to try it.
Recently, HHC secured a significant investment from the private equity group Savory Fund in October 2023, bolstering its financial resources to support further growth initiatives. New corporate locations are already under construction in Las Vegas and Scottsdale, Arizona, signaling a robust future for the brand.
Future Plans and Upcoming Events
Looking ahead, HHC anticipates that 2025 will be a pivotal year for franchise signings, as they aim to expand their footprint even further. The next new location is set to open in Post Falls, Idaho, on May 10, 2025. The grand opening event will feature complimentary food for the first 250 guests and a tantalizing $1000 Spice Challenge, highlighting the brand’s commitment to customer engagement and community involvement.
Current operational hours for all locations are Sunday to Thursday from 10:30 am to 10:00 pm and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 am to 12:00 am. HHC locations can now be found across various states, including Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, Utah, Idaho, Washington, and Michigan, offering high-quality, responsibly sourced chicken that is organic, halal, cage-free, antibiotic-free, and hormone-free.
With a rapidly growing presence and ambitious plans for future expansion, Houston TX Hot Chicken is positioning itself as a leading name in the hot chicken market while emphasizing quality and customer experience.
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Additional Resources
- Restaurant News: Houston, TX Hot Chicken Races to the Top of the Hot Chicken Market
- MSN: Urban Bird Hot Chicken Opens 20th Houston Area Restaurant in Sugar Land
- KREM: Houston Hot Chicken Opening in Post Falls
- Fast Casual: Houston TX Hot Chicken Opening 25th Location
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hot Chicken
