
A major development has rocked the fast-food scene. Subway’s parent company, known for its aggressive expansion, has made a bold move that’s turning heads across the industry.
Roark Capital has acquired a rapidly growing fried chicken chain with a massive fanbase. The chain is known for its viral marketing and bold flavors, and it has quickly become a sensation in the competitive world of fast food. Backed by Roark’s proven track record in scaling successful restaurant chains, the acquisition promises even greater expansion and innovation.
Roark Capital’s Winning Streak

Subway’s parent company, Roark Capital, is known for buying and growing successful restaurant brands. Their collection already includes some of the biggest names in the food world. With this latest acquisition, the company is doubling down on its commitment to dominate the fast-food sector.
Roark’s strategy is straightforward: invest in brands with big growth potential and loyal customers. The fried chicken chain is a perfect match, and under Roark’s guidance, it will bring new opportunities for expansion and innovation.
The Fried Chicken Frenzy

Over the years, fried chicken has become all the hype in the fast-food world. The so-called “Chicken Sandwich Wars” sparked intense rivalry, with big-name brands and newer ones all competing for the spotlight. Customers can’t get enough of bold, crispy, and flavorful chicken.
The chain that Roark Capital has just acquired has been a standout in this trend and has gained a cult following thanks to its unique take on the classic fried chicken. Its fast growth and strong fan base made it an easy choice for acquisition.
A Brand with Buzz

This isn’t just any fried chicken fast-food restaurant. Over the years, the brand has generated huge buzz on social media and among millions of foodies across America. It is known for its bold flavors and Instagram-worthy meals and has quickly turned into a must-visit spot for celebrities and everyday fans.
Thanks to its rapid growth and clever viral marketing, the chain has stood out in a crowded market. Now, with support from Subway’s parent company, it’s ready to grow even faster, expanding into new areas and attracting an even bigger fan base.
Dave’s Hot Chicken

The news is out: the fried chicken chain scooped up by Subway’s parent company is none other than Dave’s Hot Chicken. It was first launched in LA in 2017 as a small parking lot pop-up, but over the years, Dave’s has made a name for itself.
Its signature Nashville-style hot chicken, offered in spice levels from mild to “Reaper,” captured fans’ attention fast. With over 300 locations and rapid international expansion, Dave’s has become a sensation in the fast-food world. Now, with backing from Roark Capital, it’s set to become a global fast-food powerhouse.
Humble Beginnings, Meteoric Rise

In 2017, Save’s started with just $900 and a portable fryer, all because of a group of friends who were passionate about spicy chicken. Their small pop-up quickly drew long lines of customers, thanks to word of mouth and rave reviews. With chef-crafted recipes and heat levels that could be tailored to any taste, the brand quickly stood out in a crowded market.
From those humble beginnings, Dave’s has grown into a fast-casual juggernaut with locations across the U.S., Canada, and the Middle East. It’s a true American success story, now making its mark on the global stage.
Why Dave’s Was the Perfect Choice

It comes as no surprise that Roark Capital saw huge potential in Dave’s Hot Chicken. With its straightforward, scalable menu and efficient operations, the brand is perfectly suited for rapid franchising. Thanks to strong profit margins and a proven business model, franchisees are eager to open new locations.
With Roark’s experience in growing successful restaurant brands, Dave’s is set to speed up its international expansion. As it enters new countries and markets, Dave’s Hot Chicken is on track to become a leading name in the global fast-food industry.
Leadership and Culture Remain

A major highlight of the acquisition is that Dave’s Hot Chicken’s leadership team will remain in place. The CEO, Bill Phelps, and the chain’s original founders will still be able to guide the brand’s vision and growth. This way, Dave’s unique culture and commitment to quality remain intact.
This means that, thankfully, fans of the chain can expect the same delicious chicken and bold flavors that made Dave’s famous. With Roark’s resources and the founders’ passion, the chain is expected to become an even bigger success in the coming years.
Celebrity Investors and Viral Fame

The chain isn’t just popular with the public; even celebrities are fans. Drake, a highly successful rapper, is a high-profile investor, often celebrating his birthday by giving away free sliders. The brand’s strong presence on social media and connection to pop culture have played a big role in its rapid growth.
Whether it’s trending TikTok challenges or shoutouts from celebrities, Dave’s knows how to keep the buzz going. This mix of star power and grassroots enthusiasm has helped the brand stand out in the competitive world of fried chicken.
The Future Looks Spicy

With the support of Roark Capital, Dave’s Hot Chicken is getting ready for a massive expansion. Plans are already in motion for hundreds of new locations, making its signature spicy chicken accessible to even more fans around the globe.
Now part of a powerhouse portfolio alongside giants like Subway and Dunkin’, Dave’s is expected to become a global fast-food icon. The future promises bold flavors, innovative menu items, and continued viral buzz. For fried chicken lovers everywhere, this is just the beginning.
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