Zaxby’s Expands with Over 50 New Locations in 2024
Zaxby’s, the beloved Southern fast-food chicken chain, is making big moves in 2024. After recently bringing back its fan-favorite milkshakes for its 35th anniversary, the company has announced plans to open more than 50 new restaurants this year, aiming to surpass the 1,000-location milestone.
Zaxby’s continues to expand its footprint across the U.S. with new locations opening throughout 2024.
Zaxby’s Growth Strategy
Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Atlanta, Zaxby’s currently operates over 950 locations across 17 states. Known for its Chicken Fingerz, Zalads, wings, and signature sauces, the chain is now expanding beyond its traditional Southeastern markets.
Key expansion highlights include:
- New locations in Western states like Nevada and Arizona
- Northern expansion with openings in New Jersey
- Continued growth in established Southeastern markets
2024 Openings So Far
According to USA Today, Zaxby’s has already opened 16 new locations this year, with many more planned. Here’s the complete list of 2024 openings to date:
June Openings
- Cochran, GA: June 2
- Columbus, IN: June 16
- Eustis, FL: Coming June 23
May Openings
- Spartanburg, SC: May 26
- Richmond Hill, GA: May 12
- Bristol, TN: May 12
April Openings
- Vincennes, IN: April 21
- Las Vegas, NV: April 14
- Charlotte, NC: April 7
- Chapel Hill, NC: April 2
March Openings
- Locust, NC: March 17
- Leavenworth, KS: March 3
February Openings
- Spartanburg, SC: February 24
- Valdosta, GA: February 24
- Spartanburg, SC: February 3
January Openings
- Rocky Mount, VA: January 27
- Brookhaven, GA: January 20
- Natchez, MI: January 6
What’s Next for Zaxby’s?
With its aggressive expansion strategy, Zaxby’s is poised to become one of the fastest-growing fast-food chains in America. The company’s westward expansion marks a significant shift from its traditional Southern roots, while maintaining strong growth in its core markets.
Future plans include:
- Additional locations in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina
- Continued expansion in Indiana and Tennessee
- Potential new market entries
Final Thoughts
Zaxby’s resurgence comes at an interesting time for the fast-food industry. While many chains are struggling with rising costs and changing consumer preferences, Zaxby’s seems to be thriving by doubling down on what made it successful – quality chicken, signature sauces, and Southern hospitality. The return of milkshakes shows they’re listening to customers, while the aggressive expansion demonstrates confidence in their brand. As they approach the 1,000-location milestone, it will be fascinating to see if they can maintain their unique identity while growing nationally. For chicken lovers across America, this expansion means more opportunities to enjoy those famous Chicken Fingerz and Zalads.
