Industry veteran to focus on improving menu, operations, and growth through franchising
The Chickery, the Washington, DC-based pioneer of the “better chicken” category, has hired Kert Gennings as their new President. Mr. Gennings will also serve on the restaurant’s board of directors.
Mr. Gennings has a proven track record in multiple facets of the restaurant industry, including overseeing the growth of young brands like Jersey Mike’s and Vapiano International while serving as Chief Operating Officer; acting as a master franchisee in DC, Virginia, and North Carolina for Boardwalk Fresh Burgers and Fries; and, as a consultant, helping The Halal Guys sell the entire state of California and beyond within the first five months of franchising.
The new President has a four-point plan for the better chicken concept which includes installing a national purchasing program to decrease franchisee costs, re-inventing the menu, introducing an improved footprint and in-store customer experience, and implementing a complete re-brand. Mr. Gennings feels that focusing on these areas will position the brand for incredible success. “The Chickery is a concept with tremendous potential. A few basic operational and executional changes will make this a really attractive brand for potential franchisees. This restaurant will see enormous growth in the coming year,” he was quoted as saying.
Under the new President’s leadership, the brand is looking to add to their momentum, as the restaurant chain will open franchise locations in Northern California and Dubai later this year. His arrival at the restaurant’s corporate headquarters has existing franchisees excited as well. “Kert brings that rare mix of knowledge and executional know-how, and he has both in spades. I’m looking forward to working with him to improve both of our businesses,” Palo Alto franchisee Tom Kais stated.
The Chickery has partnered with franchise development partner Fransmart to handle all franchise sales. Fransmart is the development company behind the explosive growth of brands like Five Guys Burgers and Fries, Qdoba Mexican Grill, and The Halal Guys. 
The Chickery is a fast casual restaurant on the cutting edge of the increasingly popular better chicken segment, offering real tasty chicken and sides. First and foremost, The Chickery is about premium roast chicken – using all natural, never frozen, farm-fresh, humanely raised chicken with no added water or flavoring. The Chickery uses quality authentic ingredients in their entire menu which consists of options simply not found at other chicken restaurants.
Learn more about franchising opportunities with The Chickery
