One of four chicken specialists on this year's Future 50, Starbird positions itself as a high-quality option, similar to the way Wendy's has claimed the high ground in the fast-food burger segment. It, too, points out that its signature protein was never frozen, the buns for its sandwiches are a cut above and its garnishes are all freshly prepped, down to some items being pickled in house.

LocationSan Francisco, Calif.
2022 Systemwide Sales ($000,000)$30
YOY Sales Change60.7%
2022 U.S. Units12
YOY Unit Change71.4%
Future 50 Year2023
FranchisingYes

*Technomic estimate

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