Shaq's 'Big Chicken' Opens in Tampa

The Tampa location at 8725 W. Linebaugh Ave. in Westchase actually opened its doors in the spring of 2025, marking the brand's debut in the Florida market. The menu features chicken sandwiches with names nodding to Shaquille O'Neal's life, like the "Uncle Jerome" (Nashville hot style) and the "Big & Sloppy," which includes mac and cheese and crispy fried onions. The initial investment to open a Big Chicken franchise is substantial, estimated to be between $681,500 and $1,535,500, with a $40,000 franchise fee. Franchisees are also required to pay a 6% royalty fee on gross sales. The company's system-wide sales saw a significant 146% increase in 2024, reaching $25 million, primarily driven by new unit growth. The Florida expansion was part of a major 45-unit agreement with franchisee DMD Ventures, a hospitality group with a portfolio that also includes brands like Papa John's and Twin Peaks. This deal was intended to bring Big Chicken locations to Orlando, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. However, the broader Florida rollout has faced hurdles. As of early 2025, the numerous other promised locations under the DMD Ventures deal had not materialized, and a separate location in Lake City had already closed after opening in 2024. Recent business developments involving the franchisee may impact future expansion plans. In late 2025, the parent company of Twin Peaks announced it was acquiring eight Florida locations from DMD Ventures for approximately $47 million. Earlier in 2025, DMD Ventures had also filed for bankruptcy protection for two of its Twin Peaks restaurants. The fast-casual chicken segment remains a high-growth area in the restaurant industry, outpacing the broader dining sector. Chicken is the most consumed protein in the U.S., and the "chicken sandwich wars" have fueled intense competition and innovation among brands, making market penetration and franchisee stability critical for success.