Saucy Chicken Franchise Celebrates Landmark Year with New Market Entry, Franchise Operator Demand and Vision for Next Phase of Growth

ATLANTA – Zaxbys®, the rapidly expanding QSR chicken brand famous for its quality Chicken Fingerz™, wings and signature sauces, enters 2026 with historic momentum after reaching 1,000 restaurants nationwide and earning recognition from QSR Magazine as the industry’s Most Transformational Brands of the Year. Following a year defined by new market entries, design innovation and increased demand from multi-unit franchise operators, Zaxbys continues its evolution from a regional Southern favorite into a national QSR powerhouse.

As of January 2026, Zaxbys operates more than 1,000 restaurants across 22 states, with debut entries into major metro markets including Las Vegas and Phoenix, as well as expansion across Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, further extending the brand’s footprint beyond its Southeast core. This year, the brand is targeting more than 60 new restaurant openings, supported by a long-term goal of reaching 100 new stores annually.

A major driver of Zaxbys’ growth has been the rollout of its Modern Farmhouse restaurant prototype, which introduces flexible footprints, dual-lane drive-thrus, and a refreshed design that supports both traditional and non-traditional formats. Zaxbys recently signed a new non-traditional franchise agreement to open a restaurant on a prominent military base. With multiple formats ranging from full dine-in restaurants to drive-thru-only, the prototype allows franchisees to adapt to a wide range of real estate opportunities, including urban, suburban and high-traffic corridors.

“Zaxbys is at a pivotal moment in its history,” said Bert Lane, Vice President of Franchise Sales at Zaxbys. “With more than 1,000 locations, combined with strong franchise demand and a modernized operating platform, the brand has built meaningful momentum. The focus going into 2026 is on building the right markets with the right partners while continuing to strengthen the foundation for sustained momentum across all aspects of the brand.”

Zaxbys is fueling nationwide growth in 2026, and interest from both new and multi-unit operators remains strong as the brand enters its next phase of development. Key growth markets for 2026 include Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia, as well as select non-traditional locations such as college campuses, military bases and travel hubs.

Zaxbys’ transformation has extended beyond development and operations into marketing and menu innovation. In 2025, the brand launched its culturally relevant “Who’s Got the Sauce™?” campaign, featuring actor Omar Epps as the Sauce Boss, helping drive brand awareness and connect with younger audiences nationwide. Building on that momentum, Zaxbys expanded its flavor portfolio with high-performing limited-time offers such as Lemon Pepper Dry Rub and piloted new dayparts, including Late-Night Zax, creating additional opportunities for franchisees to drive traffic and increase revenue.

Zaxbys has served up bold flavor and signature sauces since its founding in 1990. Known for its Chicken Fingerz™, Zalads®, wings, and 12 signature sauces, the brand has become a standout in the QSR chicken category. Its continued commitment to quality, innovation, and guest experience has earned national recognition, including placements on the Franchise Times Top 400, QSR Magazine’s Top 50 Fast-Food Chains, Entrepreneur, Forbes, and Newsweek.

With a passionate leadership team and a culture rooted in Servant Leadership, Zaxbys is building a legacy of growth, empowering franchisees and fostering a brand where team members and guests feel welcome, valued, and inspired.