About Chick-Fil-A
About Chick-fil-A: A Legacy of Service, Community and Quality
About Chick-fil-A: Chick-fil-A is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cornerstone of exceptional food, heartfelt service, and meaningful community impact. From its humble beginnings in Georgia to a presence in over 2,700 locations across North America, About Chick-fil-A highlights a brand synonymous with excellence and care.
The Birth of a Classic
In 1964, founder S. Truett Cathy introduced the world to the Original Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich. This iconic creation, made with marinated, hand-breaded chicken, pickles, and a toasted bun, set the foundation for the company. By 1967, Cathy officially established Chick-fil-A, naming it to emphasize “grade A top quality” chicken.
Decades later, the sandwich remains unchanged, a testament to its timeless appeal and the brand’s commitment to quality.
A Franchise Model Like No Other
Unlike typical franchises, Chick-fil-A’s independent Owner-Operators actively manage their restaurants. With a low franchise fee of $15,000 the model prioritizes local ownership and community engagement. Most operators focus on a single location, ensuring a personal touch and fostering deep community connections.
Making Sundays Special
From the very start, founder Truett Cathy made the deliberate decision to close Chick-fil-A restaurants on Sundays—a tradition that began in 1946 with his first restaurant in Hapeville, Georgia. This choice wasn’t driven by business strategies or market trends but by Cathy’s deeply held belief in providing a day of rest and reflection for himself and his employees. Having worked long hours in restaurants open seven days a week, Cathy recognized the value of taking a step back to recharge, spend time with family, and, for those who choose, worship.
This practice, which continues to this day, is a rarity in the fast-food industry and speaks volumes about Chick-fil-A’s dedication to its values. While many might view closing on a weekend day as a missed opportunity for sales, the company sees it as an investment in its people. It’s a gesture that reinforces a culture of care, ensuring that team members have time for what matters most outside of work. For customers, it’s a powerful reminder that Chick-fil-A prioritizes principles over profit—an ethos that has helped the brand earn loyalty far beyond its food.
Investing in People and Communities
Chick-fil-A goes beyond serving food; it serves people. Through initiatives like the Remarkable Futures Scholarship and the Chick-fil-A Shared Table® program, the company helps team members pursue higher education and addresses food insecurity by donating surplus food to local nonprofits. To date, the Shared Table® program has provided over 30 million meals to those in need across North America.
Additionally, every new Chick-fil-A restaurant opening includes a $25,000 donation to hunger relief organizations like Feeding America and Second Harvest in Canada. These efforts highlight Chick-fil-A’s commitment to creating lasting change and uplifting the communities it serves, demonstrating that its care extends well beyond the plate.
Innovation Meets Tradition
Chick-fil-A has always been a trailblazer in the restaurant industry, pioneering ideas like pairing restaurants with shopping malls and introducing healthier menu options like grilled entrees and fruit cups. Digital advancements, such as the Chick-fil-A® App, make ordering more convenient while enhancing the customer experience.
Despite its forward-thinking innovations, Chick-fil-A stays true to the values of its founder, Truett Cathy. Now led by his grandson, Andrew, the family-run business continues to prioritize exceptional hospitality and community impact. This blend of tradition and innovation ensures Chick-fil-A remains a beloved brand while meeting the needs of a modern audience.
The Heart of Chick-fil-A
Behind every meal is a story of care. Whether it’s the iconic “my pleasure” response from employees or the freshly prepared, high-quality meals, Chick-fil-A is in the business of creating memorable experiences. This focus on hospitality and quality continues to fuel its success as the company expands into new markets.
From its classic chicken sandwich to its remarkable community impact, Chick-fil-A isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a tradition of excellence. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a lifelong fan, every visit promises great food, warm smiles, and a sense of belonging.
A Legacy of Care and Excellence
Chick-fil-A’s story is one of passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to people. From its humble beginnings with the creation of the Original Chicken Sandwich to its expansion into communities across North America, the company has consistently prioritized quality, service, and community impact. Whether it’s through uplifting team members, supporting local nonprofits, or offering unparalleled hospitality, Chick-fil-A’s dedication to making a difference shines in every aspect of its operations. As the brand continues to grow, it remains a symbol of what’s possible when a business is built on values that prioritize care, kindness, and excellence. With every meal served, Chick-fil-A inspires a legacy of warmth and connection that keeps guests coming back for more.