Zaxby’s, the popular chicken chain known for its crispy chicken fingers and flavorful sauces, is planning to open 50 more locations by the end of 2025, marking a significant milestone in its growth. The chain, which currently operates over 950 locations across 17 U.S. states, is on track to surpass 1,000 locations, expanding its footprint even further into new regions.
Zaxby’s Growth and Expansion Plans
Zaxby’s, a brand that has found its roots in the Southeastern U.S., currently has a strong presence in states like Georgia, Florida, and Alabama. However, on June 12, 2023, the company announced that it would be expanding into new territories, including areas like Nevada and Arizona in the West. With plans to open 50 more locations by the end of this year, Zaxby’s is focusing on extending its reach beyond the South.
The chain will continue to grow within established Southeastern markets as well, with new locations planned for Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Indiana, Tennessee, and more. This ongoing expansion aims to capture new audiences while maintaining a stronghold in its traditional areas.
New Locations Opening Soon
The chain has already started opening new locations this year, with several recently added spots. For example, a Zaxby’s location opened in Columbus, Indiana, on June 16, 2023, and another is set to open in Eustis, Florida, on June 23. Additionally, the company will open its first-ever location in Phoenix, Arizona, next month, marking a new chapter for Zaxby’s in the Southwest.
Earlier this year, Zaxby’s also expanded into Nevada, with a new location in Las Vegas opening on April 14. Another Zaxby’s will open in Nevada in July, marking the second location in the state. These new locations are part of the company’s strategy to push into previously unexplored markets and establish a presence in key regions.
Further Expansion into New Markets
As part of its expansion plans, Zaxby’s will continue to strengthen its presence in the Southeastern U.S. while also venturing into new markets in 2025. The chain has announced plans to open restaurants in states like Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, Illinois, Ohio, and New Jersey, in addition to further growth in already established regions.
Rapid Expansion This Year
Zaxby’s has already opened 16 of the 50 new locations it plans for 2025. The growth started early in the year, with new spots opening in cities across various states, including:
Cochran, Georgia (June 2)
Spartanburg, South Carolina (May 26)
Richmond Hill, Georgia (May 12)
Bristol, Tennessee (May 12)
Vincennes, Indiana (April 21)
Las Vegas, Nevada (April 14)
Charlotte, North Carolina (April 7)
Chapel Hill, North Carolina (April 2)
Locust, North Carolina (March 17)
Leavenworth, Kansas (March 3)
Spartanburg, South Carolina (February 24)
Valdosta, Georgia (February 24)
Spartanburg, South Carolina (February 3)
Rocky Mount, Virginia (January 27)
Brookhaven, Georgia (January 20)
Natchez, Mississippi (January 6)
Growing Popularity and Social Media Buzz
Zaxby’s growing popularity is evident on social media, where many fans are declaring the chain to be superior to Raising Cane’s, one of its main competitors. On platforms like Twitter and Instagram, users are sharing their love for Zaxby’s, with one person even stating that Zaxby’s is “10/10 wayyyy better than Cane’s.” This increasing fan base is helping fuel the chain’s success as it continues to expand across the country.
Zaxby’s is on a fast track to reaching 1,000 locations and continues to win over fans with its crispy chicken offerings and tangy sauces. With its expansion into new states like Arizona, Nevada, and other regions in 2025, Zaxby’s looks set to become a national favorite, challenging other chicken chains like Raising Cane’s as it grows its presence.
