For James Brown, becoming a Chicken Salad Chick franchise owner was the next step in a lifelong mission built on discipline, service, and purpose. A proud Marine Corps veteran, James brings the lessons of his 13-year military career into his business journey, finding in Chicken Salad Chick a brand that reflects the same values of teamwork, leadership, and integrity.
During his time in the Marine Corps, James served on a Direct Action Team, trained to deploy anywhere in the world when called. Later, he trained new Marines, preparing the next generation for the missions ahead.
Those experiences shaped his belief in structure, teamwork, and accountability — principles that continue to guide him as a franchise owner.
James often says the discipline and focus learned in the military align closely with the systems and routines required to run a successful restaurant.
For many veterans, franchising provides a structured and proven business model that mirrors the operational discipline learned in service. The Chicken Salad Chick franchise model offers a clear process, strong support systems, and a community of owners who share best practices and work together toward shared goals.
James likes to say, “If the Marine Corps was a restaurant, it would be Chicken Salad Chick,” a reflection of the culture of teamwork and purpose he found within the brand.
After leaving the military, James was drawn to opportunities that would allow him to continue serving his community. He found that alignment in Chicken Salad Chick, a franchise built on hospitality, care, and connection.
“The Marine Corps teaches you that there’s nothing you can’t accomplish with discipline and teamwork,” he says. “That mindset fits perfectly here.”
James leads his restaurant with the same approach he used in the military: empowering his team, maintaining high standards, and celebrating wins together.
James encourages other veterans to consider franchise ownership as their next chapter.
“Stepping into something new can be intimidating,” he says, “but veterans already have what it takes. Discipline, resilience, and the ability to lead through uncertainty translate directly into business ownership.”
His advice: trust your instincts and be willing to take the next step.
· Structured franchise training and ongoing support
· A collaborative network of franchise owners
· A brand culture centered around purpose, community, and teamwork
· Opportunities for single-unit or multi-unit growth
Chicken Salad Chick is proud to have veteran franchise owners like James Brown, who continue to lead with purpose and make a difference in their communities.
Chicken Salad Chick provides a structured, proven business model that aligns with the discipline and leadership skills veterans develop in the military. The training, systems, and team support make the transition into franchise ownership more accessible and predictable.
Restaurant experience is helpful but not required. The franchise provides extensive training, operational guidance, and ongoing support to help new owners learn the business and operate successfully.
Support includes site selection assistance, construction guidance, marketing resources, operational training, and ongoing coaching from the franchise team. Owners also benefit from a strong peer network of fellow franchisees.
Veterans bring discipline, resilience, teamwork, and accountability into their business ventures. These traits align well with franchise systems, which rely on consistent operations, leadership, and the ability to follow a proven process.
Prospective owners can visit the Chicken Salad Chick franchising website to explore available territories, request information, or speak with the franchise development team.