Chick-fil-A sets sights on Europe
Chick-fil-A yesterday announched it will be moving into two new markets. According to the Wall Street Journal, the company plans to move into European and Asian markets with the first locations opening by 2026.
The company will invest $1 billion over the next 6 years with plans to expand to three more international markets by 2030.
Chick-fil-A’s CEO, Andrew Cathy, said to the WSJ: “We feel like it’s time to continue to innovate and try and test how we will do in international markets so that we can learn.”
When looking at their US based sales, Chick-fil-A is the third largest fast-food restaurant in the United States behind that of fast-food giants, McDonald's and Starbucks. However, when based on profitability per location, Chick-fil-A takes first place.
With a franchise model and simple menu focused primarily on chicken sandwiches, waffle fries and milkshakes, the privately held company has consistently outperformed chicken based competitors like KFC and Popeyes in the US.
As far as the franchise model goes, Chick-fil-A plans to keep its current stipulations. The franchising process is very selective, and after going through extensive training, franchise owners are only permitted to run a single location.
In recent years the fast-food market in Europe has been growing with American fast-food brands due to an increased demand for quick and affordable meals; Popeyes, Shake Shack, Slim Chickens and Wendy’s to just name a few. However, KFC remains the top seller in the region.
In addition, the importance that Europeans place on a healthy diet has not stifled the ongoing fast-food market growth. Perhaps Chick-fil-A's focus on quality ingredients that contain no trans fats or antibiotics might be the winning ticket when taking on the European continent.
In the meantime, the company will hope their second attempt on European territory will be received better than its first. In 2020, Chick-fil-A's United Kingdom restaurants quickly closed due to protests from LGBTQ activists, making the chain's first trip to Europe a massive flop.
Chick-fil-A currently has 2,600 locations across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
Quality assurance / The franchising process is very selective, and after going through extensive training, franchise owners are only permitted to run a single location. 
read articles
A global taste of Spanish tradition
/2025-08-29
Discover how 100 Montaditos, the Spanish franchise built on variety and affordability, is expanding worldwide with strong support for its partners.
The Lithuanian brand iLunch offers a tech-driven, fast-casual dining concept and is now opening franchise opportunities abroad.
German-born L’Osteria brings authentic Italian food and franchise growth to Poland and beyond — with over 170 restaurants already across Europe.
wineBANK combines private wine storage with a club lifestyle. The German concept is expanding across Europe and looking for new franchise partners.
French premium confectionery brand La Cure Gourmande opens to new franchise partners in Germany and across Europe, offering a proven model with high margins.
most read
Franchise cost breakdown
/2024-09-30
Before signing a franchise deal this fall, learn about the hidden costs beyond the initial fee—renovations, equipment, and royalty fees.
Speed Queen offers a profitable, low-maintenance franchise in the growing self-service laundry industry, with strong brand support and no royalty fees.
Gym franchises are on the rise across Europe, offering flexible business models for fitness enthusiasts. Explore how to join the movement and the costs involved.
The Fornetti Group is working to become a leader in the franchise market of frozen bakery products not only in Hungary but also in Europe.
Franchising in Europe is booming—discover which sectors lead growth through data, key markets, and standout brands.