Page Loader
Business • Jun 11, 2025

CEO transforms 19 employees into millionaires

Dave's Hot Chicken started as a tiny $900 pop-up in 2017—now it's been acquired by Roark Capital for about $1 billion. The wildest part? CEO Bill Phelps made sure 19 employees became millionaires from the sale. It's a big win for the team and sets the chain up for even more growth.

TL;DR

Dave's has over 315 locations worldwide

With over 315 locations worldwide and nearly six million social media followers, Dave's Hot Chicken is on fire. They're planning to open 155 more spots this year, aiming for over 400 by end of 2025. Even after the sale, Phelps and the original founders are sticking around, focusing on new menu ideas and making sure fans keep coming back.