Bojangles , the Carolina-born fast food restaurant specializing in Southern-style chicken and biscuits, is making its West Coast debut. Lorenzo Boucetta and Poulet Brothers, LLC recently signed a 30-unit agreement with the national chicken chain to become the exclusive franchisor for the Los Angeles and Inland Empire markets, with their first locations expected to open by early 2025.
“We’re searching for sites right now as we speak. Once we’re done developing the stores over the next 5-6 years, we’ll hopefully be everywhere – the Westside, the Valley, Glendora, Long Beach. Ideally, we’ll be opening in the Downey area initially, but that’s all predicated on what real estate opportunities we’re able to find,” Boucetta told WNLA.
Boucetta’s team is looking for a variation of sites – a benchmark corner lot, a half-acre site for a double drive thru, outposts within shopping centers, etc.
“In terms of West Coast chicken, you have older players like Popeye’s and KFC and newer ones like Raising Canes and Chick-fil-a. Our product is great compared to the competitors, there’s a flavor profile that Bojangles has which L.A. is missing. Being able to work with a brand like Bojangles with national recognition while being the exclusive franchisor allows us to create our own culture and aesthetic while affording us a level of quality and service control at all the stores in our markets,” said Boucetta.
Since moving to Los Angeles in 2009, Boucetta has focused on restoring high-end historical properties, leveraging his experience in the hospitality industry both domestically and internationally. Coupled with his operating partner’s 20 years of experience in the restaurant and chicken sector, Boucetta’s expertise positions them well to establish Bojangles’ Southern charm in California.
“Supporting our franchisees is a fundamental pillar of success and growth at Bojangles. Being there for them at every stage of the franchising process strengthens our relationships and commitment to partnership,” said Jose Armario , CEO of Bojangles . “Lorenzo’s impressive background in business operations, hospitality, and real estate development makes him an ideal partner for us. We are ecstatic to bring Bojangles to Los Angeles residents and look forward to opening our first location in California.”
In terms of the growth strategy, Boucetta hopes to build far and above the 30 units they’ve already agreed to. “We hope to scale to 100+ units one day – that’s the vision for L.A.”
Boucetta also mentioned that their deal has jumpstarted more franchising inquiries throughout California.
Bojangles has over 800 locations and is one of the fastest-growing, quick-service chicken chains in the country.
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