28 BEST OF THE BEST FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2013 • NWA MEDIA PROMOTIONAL SUPPLEMENT
lim Chickens is moving into its second decade with
accelerating growth, not to mention satisfied diners.
The first Slim Chickens opened at 2120 N.
College Ave. in Fayetteville in February 2003. The
operation has grown to 11 restaurants in Arkansas
and Oklahoma. The newest Slim Chickens is in the just-
opened Founders Hall at the University of Arkansas.
Greg Smart, co-founder and chief marketing offi
-
cer, said the company offers fresh, never-frozen chicken
tenders and wings from Tyson Foods, as well as dipping
sauces, sandwiches, salads, wraps and sides such as
fried pickles, okra and mushrooms.
"Our focus is growing the Slim Chickens brand
through franchising," Smart says. New locations opened
earlier this year in Little Rock and Texarkana, and con
-
struction is under way in Hot Springs.
Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Tom Gor-
don said he feels like the secret to Slim's recent growth
is simple.
"It's all about quality, fresh food, cooked to order, and
great customer service. All our signature dipping sauces
are made in-house," Gordon said.
More information is available online at slim-chick
-
ens.com.
NWA Media/CASEY COTTON
Slim Chicken founders Greg Smart (left) and Tom
Gordon have added 10 restaurants to the first one
they opened in 2003.
SLIM CHICKENS
>> Chicken
BY BEN S. POLLOCK
SPECIAL TO NWA MEDIA
Steady
growth
S
continues at Slim Chickens
