Bojangles, the Carolina-born quick service restaurant known for its hand-breaded chicken, made-from-scratch biscuits and Southern comfort food, has opened its first Michigan location in Wyoming in the Grand Rapids metropolitan area. The freestanding 2238 square foot unit at 1730 28th St. SW opened earlier this week, marking the brand’s debut in the Great Lakes State. The location is owned by Grand Rapids-based multi-brand franchisee Meritage Hospitality Group and it plans to add more Bojangles units in Michigan. The Michigan launch represents another milestone in Bojangles’ strategic expansion, following recent openings in Austin, Brooklyn, Piscataway, Las Vegas, Columbus, Baton Rouge and several major Texas markets. CEO Jose Armario said the company is excited to introduce Bojangles’ Southern charm to Michigan and expects a strong response from the local community. Founded in Charlotte in North Carolina in 1977, Bojangles is best known for its bold flavors, Legendary Iced Tea and popular ‘fixins’ such as Seasoned Fries, Dirty Rice and Macaroni & Cheese, served throughout the day. The brand continues to grow with more than 850 company-owned and franchised restaurants in 22 states. Traditional, free-standing Bojangles restaurants typically measure between 2,500 and 3,900 square feet and various sizes are unique markets and express formats.
Meritage Hospitality Group, 45 Ottawa Ave SW, Suite 600, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 (616/776-2600 www.meritagehospitality.com)
Bojangles Restaurants Inc., 9432 Southern Pine Blvd., Charlotte, North Carolina 28273 (www.bojangles.com)