What was the net change in the number of company-owned Churchs Chicken outlets during 2023?
Churchs_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Outlet Type | Year | Outlets at Start of the Year | Outlets at End of the Year | Net Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Company Owned | 2022 | 161 | 158 | -3 |
| 2023 | 158 | 156 | -2 | |
| 2024 | 156 | 159 | +3 |
Source: Item 20 — OUTLETS AND FRANCHISEE INFORMATION (FDD pages 62–67)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Churchs Chicken's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the net change in the number of company-owned outlets during 2023 was a decrease of 2. At the start of 2023, there were 158 company-owned Churchs Chicken outlets. By the end of 2023, this number had decreased to 156. This indicates that Churchs Chicken closed more company-owned stores than it opened or acquired during that year.
For a prospective franchisee, this information provides insight into the strategic direction of Churchs Chicken. A decrease in company-owned stores could suggest a greater emphasis on franchising as the primary mode of expansion. It could also reflect challenges in operating company-owned stores profitably, leading to closures.
However, it's important to note that while the net change was negative, this doesn't necessarily indicate poor performance. It could be part of a strategic shift in the business model. A prospective franchisee should inquire about the reasons behind the change in company-owned store numbers to fully understand the implications. Understanding the balance between franchised and company-owned locations can help a franchisee assess the stability and growth potential of the Churchs Chicken system.