Dave’s Hot Chicken is turning up the heat in Canada with an ambitious expansion strategy that brings its signature Nashville-style hot chicken to communities across the country. Canadian franchisee Blair Bitove, under Bite Brands, is leading the charge, blending unique flavours, strategic growth, and a commitment to quality.
Ontario and Western Canada Expansion
Dave’s Hot Chicken is set to add four new locations in Ontario next year, including Kitchener, Pickering, London, and Brampton. “We’re really excited to bring our signature flavours to even more communities,” said Blair Bitove. “Each of these cities has shown great enthusiasm for our brand, and we’re thrilled to be growing in Ontario.”
Two of the Ontario locations are already under construction, with two more slated to begin in the spring. “It’s all about finding the right spaces and ensuring that we maintain our high standards,” Bitove added. “We want every customer to have the same amazing experience, no matter which location they visit.”
Western Canada is also on the map, with an Edmonton location currently under construction and lease negotiations underway in Calgary. “We’re excited to establish a stronger presence in Western Canada,” Bitove said. “These cities are ready for something new, and we’re confident our hot chicken will make a lasting impression.”
All Canadian locations are corporately owned and operated by Bite Brands, a strategic decision that ensures consistency and quality. “Keeping operations under one umbrella allows us to maintain our high standards across the board,” explained Bitove.
Standing Out in a Crowded Market
Since opening its first Canadian location in January 2021, Dave’s Hot Chicken has rapidly gained a following, with six Ontario locations now in operation. The brand faces stiff competition from established players such as KFC, Popeye’s, and Mary Brown’s, but Bitove believes Dave’s has a unique edge. “Our chicken isn’t just another fried option,” she said. “It’s freshly prepared for every order, with a proprietary blend of spices that sets us apart.”
The brand’s origins in California add to its distinctive appeal. Founded in 2017 by four childhood friends, including trained chef Dave Kopushyan, Dave’s Hot Chicken quickly grew from a parking lot pop-up in East Hollywood to a sensation with long lines and rave reviews. “That authenticity and passion are at the core of every bite we serve,” said Bitove. “People can taste the difference, and that’s why they keep coming back.”
Building Brand Awareness Through Events
Raising brand awareness has been a critical component of Dave’s Hot Chicken’s Canadian growth strategy. The ICSC Toronto conference played a pivotal role in introducing the brand to landlords and potential partners. “It was tough at first,” Bitove admitted. “Landlords hadn’t heard of us, and it was hard to ask them to try our product when we had so few locations.”
The ICSC event provided a turning point, allowing landlords and others to experience the brand firsthand. “We had landlords, even staff from other chicken brands, lining up to try our food,” Bitove recalled. “It was our chance to show them we’re more than just another chicken joint. The feedback was phenomenal, and it helped open a lot of doors.”
Site Selection and Real Estate Strategy
Dave’s Hot Chicken typically seeks out standalone locations ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 square feet, with a preference for end-cap locations that offer high visibility. “We want to provide a full dining experience, so standalone sites with patios are ideal,” Bitove explained. “Our product is made-to-order, which makes it less suited for traditional food courts.”
The Shops at Pickering City Centre location, currently under construction, exemplifies this approach. Situated with exterior mall access, it offers both convenience and a dedicated dining space. “We’re focused on creating an environment that matches the quality of our food,” Bitove said.
Customer Loyalty and Menu Innovations
Dave’s Hot Chicken’s ability to turn first-time visitors into loyal customers is a key strength. “Once people try our food, they come back,” Bitove said, referencing strong repeat business from third-party delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and SkipTheDishes. “It shows we’re doing something right.”
Menu innovation is another part of Dave’s success. While the brand’s core offering of tenders and sliders remains its focus, new items like Dave’s Hot Chicken Bites have broadened its appeal. “The bites have been a great addition,” Bitove said. “They’re perfect for kids and anyone looking for a smaller portion.”
In January, Dave’s will reintroduce its limited-time offering, “Dave’s Not Chicken,” a cauliflower-based option. “It’s great for vegetarians or anyone looking to try something different,” Bitove noted. “It has the same bold flavors our fans love.”
Strategic Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Dave’s Hot Chicken plans to open 25 to 30 locations across Canada within the next three years, with a focus on Ontario and Western Canada before expanding further east. “It’s about building strong operations and making sure we deliver the same great experience everywhere,” said Bitove. The team is also considering an eventual expansion into Quebec. “Once we’re established in Western Canada and Ontario, Quebec will be a natural next step.”
Reflecting on the brand’s rapid growth and future potential, Bitove said, “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far, but we’re just getting started. Canadians have really embraced Dave’s Hot Chicken, and we’re excited to see where we can take it next.”
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