Colorado-born craft chicken brand sets goal of signing nearly 100 locations across six states by 2031.
Denver, CO (RestaurantNews.com) Birdcall is setting its sights on the Midwest as it continues its rapid expansion.
The Colorado-born fast casual brand has mapped out plans to add nearly 100 locations across six states to its franchise expansion pipeline in the next five years. The company’s initial efforts will focus on Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, and Wisconsin as it looks to introduce its all-natural chicken, made-to-order meals, and tech-forward dining experience to new markets throughout the region.
“The Midwest represents a tremendous opportunity for Birdcall,” said Mark Lohmann, CEO of Birdcall. “From our award-winning chicken sandwiches and other handcrafted menu offerings to our commitment to innovation and community, we believe Birdcall offers an experience that resonates with today’s guests and is a natural fit for the region.”
Birdcall sees development opportunities in these key markets:
- Indiana– 10-15 restaurants across Indianapolis, Bloomington, Evansville, and Fort Wayne.
- Kansas – 6-8 restaurants across Wichita and Topeka.
- Missouri – As many as 18 restaurants across St. Louis, Columbia, and Kansas City.
- Nebraska – 7-10 restaurants across Omaha and Lincoln.
- Ohio– As many as 25 restaurants across Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Toledo.
- Wisconsin– 10-15 restaurants across Milwaukee, Madison, and Appleton.
The restaurants will feature Birdcall’s signature atmosphere, combining modern design, vibrant artwork, family-friendly dining spaces, and convenient self-order kiosks designed to create a fast, seamless guest experience. Each restaurant will also occupy approximately 2,300 square feet of space and include indoor and outdoor seating for as many as 125-150 customers.
While the focus will lie in establishing free-standing locations, Birdcall recognizes the potential for additional opportunities that can bring the brand’s unique offerings to a wider audience. Endcaps with drive-thrus and non-traditional locations in airports, colleges, hospitals, amusement parks, and various sporting and concert venues will represent new targets.
As for the menu?
Birdcall’s made-to-order menu features eight signature chicken sandwiches, hand-cut tenders, gluten-free nuggets, and chef-inspired salads – all made with all-natural chicken – alongside various sides such as fries, tater tots, loaded tots, and slaws, complemented by hand-spun specialty milkshakes and an array of house-made sauces and dressings. Guests also enjoy draft beer and house-made margaritas, with Happy Hour specials.
In addition to its culinary offerings, Birdcall emphasizes community engagement by supporting and partnering with local nonprofits and organizations. This includes meal donations, school partnerships, and fundraiser nights in which a portion of sales are donated back to participating organizations.
“We’ve seen tremendous interest in Birdcall from prospective franchisees who are looking for a differentiated concept with strong unit economics, broad consumer appeal, and significant room for growth,” said Justn Livingston, Vice President of Franchise Development for Birdcall. “The Midwest presents an exceptional opportunity because many of these markets remain untapped for our brand. We’re looking forward to partnering with experienced operators who share our vision and are excited to help introduce Birdcall to new communities across the region.”
The planned Midwest expansion is part of Birdcall’s broader national franchise initiative. The company currently operates 17 restaurants across Colorado, Arizona, and Texas, with nearly 20 additional locations in various stages of development.
With AUV’s of $2.3 million and a franchise fee of $50,000, the total investment to open a Birdcall restaurant starts at $762,000.
For more information, visit EatBirdcall.com and follow Birdcall on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.