Zaxby's Goes Big: 50 New Locations Coming to Your Area in 2025!

Eustis, Florida, USA - Fast food fans are in for a treat as Zaxby’s, the beloved Southern chicken chain, reveals its ambitious expansion plans for 2025. With over 50 new locations on the horizon, the company aims to exceed 1,000 restaurants nationwide. Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Atlanta, Zaxby’s currently boasts more than 950 locations across 17 states, predominantly in the Southeast. Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, and Mississippi have long been strongholds for the franchise, but changes are on the way. As of June 12, 2025, Zaxby’s has already opened 16 new locations in places like Las Vegas, Nevada, and Richmond Hill, Georgia, showcasing its determination to stretch its wings westward and northward.

Zaxby’s CEO Bernard Acoca has stepped up the brand’s game, propelling the company under a strategy dubbed ‚Grow to Win‘. Notably, Acoca’s leadership has already seen average unit volumes surge from $2.6 million to a projected $3 million, a remarkable outcome built on a foundation of smart decision-making. The ‚Grow to Win‘ plan encompasses five pivotal pillars, including cost reduction without sacrificing quality and improving drive-thru speed by a notable 20%. It’s clear that Zaxby’s has its sights set on becoming a significant player in the fast-casual dining scene, similar to competitors like Wingstop and Raising Cane’s, as highlighted by Nation’s Restaurant News.

New Markets on the Rise

The expansion is not just limited to the Southeast. Zaxby’s is making a bold move by setting its sights on new territories, including Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, Illinois, Ohio, and New Jersey. By the summer of 2025, Philadelphia-area residents will see two new Zaxby’s restaurants opening their doors, with plans for a total of ten locations in Pennsylvania and six in New Jersey over the next five years. As per PhillyVoice, Zaxby’s plans to introduce their famous Chicken Fingerz and Zalads to a whole new audience.

Interestingly, Zaxby’s previous foray into the Philadelphia market didn’t go as smoothly as planned. The launch of their „Fried Chicken Philly“ sandwich triggered mixed reactions, especially since Philadelphians were quite vocal about the marketing campaign that surrounded it. Some even expressed their discontent about the company’s attempts to tap into the local cheesesteak culture through TikTok interviews. However, it seems that Zaxby’s is keen to turn things around with its upcoming restaurant openings that could pave the way for a better reception.

Continued Success and Innovation

The company isn’t just focused on locations; they’re also honing their menu to keep customers excited. Signature items, including their popular wings and signature sauces, remain at the forefront of their offering. With a new location set to open in Eustis, Florida, on June 23, the chain aims to delight customers with their succulent flavors and friendly service. Zaxby’s has already carved out a unique niche in fast food, and their emphasis on distinctive menu items is a strategy that seems to resonate with fans.

The excitement doesn’t stop here. Zaxby’s will also unveil its first location in Phoenix, Arizona, in July 2025, embarking on a journey to introduce its Southern charm to even more states. As the brand grows, it invites loyal patrons and newcomers alike to join the Zaxby’s experience. Keep an eye out for those crispy Chicken Fingerz on your next visit—after all, it’s not just about the food; it’s about being part of a community that appreciates quality Southern dining.