Chester’s

Chester's is a well-established quick-service restaurant brand known for its fried chicken, prominently featured in convenience stores, travel centers, and truck stops throughout the United States. The company was founded in 1952 by W.O. Giles, who started with a small fried chicken operation. Over the years, Chester's has expanded its presence through strategic collaborations with convenience retailers and travel plazas. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Chester's has become a recognized name in the foodservice industry, celebrated for its unique seasoning blend and hand-breaded chicken.

As of November 2025, Chester's operates more than 1,200 locations across 48 states. Its growth has been driven by adaptable store formats, including inline counters, kiosks, and co-branded concepts that fit various retail settings. Chester's targets high-traffic areas and underserved markets, emphasizing convenience and quality. The brand continues to evolve by introducing new store concepts and menu items, while staying true to its core offering of freshly prepared fried chicken.

A pivotal moment in Chester's history was its collaboration with major convenience store chains and travel centers, which significantly expanded its national presence and reinforced its status as a preferred foodservice partner. Chester's commitment to operational simplicity and robust franchisee support has bolstered its growth and established its credibility in the commercial real estate sector. The brand provides a reliable model for landlords and developers looking to enhance foodservice options in non-traditional retail spaces.

Today, Chester's remains an independent company, employing around 150 people at its headquarters and regional offices. The company is actively expanding, with a focus on the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest regions, and is continually seeking strategic real estate partners to support future growth. Chester's is valued by commercial real estate professionals for its scale, operational dependability, and versatile store formats, making it an attractive tenant for diverse retail environments.