Chick N Max set to build 1st franchise

Wichita-based Chick N Max, a fast casual franchise specializing in almond-wood smoked chicken and wings, chef-crafted sandwiches and fried tenders, has signed a lease to open its first franchised unit. Located in the Westlink Shopping Center at 8977 West Central Ave., in Wichita, the restaurant, owned and operated by Leghorn Development, marks the chain’s fourth location in the Wichita area.

Construction begins in 45 days.

“The signing of this particular lease represents a significant step in the growth of Chick N Max as we continue to drive our franchise expansion efforts across the Central and Southeastern United States,” Chick N Max founder Max Sheets said in a company press release. “We’re grateful to have such an experienced partner in Rusty, and look forward to opening our first franchise location with incredible enthusiasm.”

The 2,500-square-foot restaurant will feature indoor seating for 50-60 guests, as well as a double drive-thru. One lane will be used for traditional on-site ordering and pickup. The other will enable an express skip-the-line promise for customers ordering online, via the Chick N Max app and third-party delivery services.

“I’ve been an admirer of Chick N Max and its exceptional guest experience for many years, and I’m excited to open the brand’s very first franchise location,” Rathbun said in the release. “I’m especially excited to have recently joined Chick N Max as an area developer. Having the opportunity to grow the brand in Kansas, which I call home, gives me great pride.”

In April, Rathbun signed an area development agreement for 25 Chick N Max locations across various designated market areas throughout Kansas. He’s planning to open three of the restaurants himself and is searching for franchise partners to develop the rest.

By the end of 2023, Chick N Max, which won the 2021 Perfect Pitch at the annual Fast Casual Executive Summit, expects to open a franchised location in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and one in Houston, where multi-unit development deals have been signed.