Zaxby's, having secured 8 locations across the Phoenix metro, prepares to open its first this summer
PHOENIX, ARIZONA (May 30, 2025) – Zaxby’s, the Georgia-based quick-service restaurant (QSR) known for its fried chicken, is preparing to open its first Arizona location this summer in Queen Creek — marking the beginning of a broader statewide expansion strategy.
Two local franchisee groups are spearheading Zaxby’s entrance into the Valley: Brian and Jessica Nelson, who will operate the Queen Creek location, and Travis and Thomas DeGoey, who have also begun securing land and building sites. Together, the franchisees have already committed to eight locations across Greater Phoenix, with more deals in early stages.
“We feel very bullish about our entry into the Valley with these two amazing franchisees,” said Bert Lane, Zaxby’s Vice President of Franchise Sales.
The rapid expansion is being facilitated by Ignite Commercial Real Estate, led by CEO Jesse Rozio, who is assisting both franchise groups in site selection.
“Zaxby’s is being widely considered as the premier drive-thru chicken QSR in the market by landlords and developers alike,” Rozio noted.
Founded in 1990, Zaxby’s is nearing a major milestone, with plans to open its 1,000th store later this year. The brand’s menu centers on fried chicken tenders, sandwiches, “Zalads,” and signature sauces. The company has recently unveiled updated branding and multiple store formats tailored to urban, suburban, and pad-site development.
According to Lane, the Phoenix metro could ultimately support up to 20 Zaxby’s locations. He added that the brand is also targeting statewide growth in Tucson, Flagstaff, Prescott, and Lake Havasu, actively seeking franchisees to expand in those areas.
“There’s plenty of room to bring in other franchise operators,” Lane said. “Who wants to be the Northern Arizona Chicken King? Who wants to be the Sauce Boss of Tucson or West Arizona?”
The company favors franchisees with prior QSR experience and typically expects operators to commit to at least two locations. Investment requirements range from $1.3 million to $3.2 million, with a minimum net worth of $1 million and $500,000 in liquid assets.
While most of the initial sites are ground-up builds in new retail centers, Lane noted the brand may consider second-generation restaurant spaces on a case-by-case basis.
To learn more, Rozio should be reached at 480.603.6892 or by email at jesse@ignite-cre.com.