Belchicken opens its first drive-thru restaurant

The Belgian restaurant chain specializing in chicken is taking another step in its expansion. Belchicken, which has established itself in just a few years as a staple of the fast-casual dining scene, is opening its very first drive-thru restaurant in Aartselaar. This opening is part of a sustained growth strategy, aiming for 350 locations worldwide by 2030.

© BELCHICKEN

Belchicken's new format will welcome its first customers this Friday, January 30th, in the former Colmar building in Aartselaar (at 23 Antwerpsesteenweg). "This new location combines speed, comfort, and experience in a modern and accessible concept," says Fevzi Yildirim, CEO of Belchicken.

Founded in 2019, the company has successfully navigated a saturated market by offering a hybrid dining experience, somewhere between fast food and a family restaurant. "With us, you don't just eat quickly, you take the time to savor, " is how they like to emphasize at Belchicken. And "we combine the irresistible taste of crispy fried chicken with a warm and inviting atmosphere." The concept is based on a culinary offering that prioritizes quality and authenticity over mere speed of execution.

In just five years, the network has expanded extensively, now boasting over 55 establishments. While Belgium remains its core business, the brand has already established a presence in Germany, France, and even Burkina Faso, totaling around ten branches abroad.

The opening of the drive-thru in Aartselaar is just one step. Belchicken makes no secret of its global ambitions. Management has unveiled a bold growth plan, aiming for a network of 350 restaurants worldwide by 2030. This requires around seventy openings per year...

To realize these ambitions, the rooster-branded chain is relying on franchising, a proven business model. With an average investment of €350,000 and projected revenues of up to €1.2 million after two years, the brand is attracting entrepreneurs.

The near future looks busy for the Belgian chicken specialist, which already has its sights set on new European markets. Additional establishments are already planned in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Portugal (the chain recently opened in Lisbon).

These openings are supported by master franchise agreements and local partnerships. These agreements should multiply the points of contact between the brand and European consumers, while relying on a proven franchise model.

With its first drive-thru restaurant, Belchicken aims to prove its ability to diversify its formats to capture all market segments. And while it has consolidated its presence in traditional and urban locations, notably in Gent Overpoort and shopping centers, this new location responds to growing demand: by welcoming drivers, the service is even more convenient, without compromising the quality standards for which the company has built its reputation.