Fast-Casual Chicken Tenders Brand Accelerates National Expansion with Proven Multi-Unit Operators
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ORLANDO, Fla., April 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Huey Magoo’s, known for its premium, hand-crafted chicken tenders, “The Filet Mignon of Chicken®,” has signed a development agreement in Texas, continuing its rapid national expansion. The development will span key counties including Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, and Montgomery, further strengthening the brand’s growing footprint in the state.
Huey Magoo’s continued momentum is fueled by its proven, scalable business model and strong unit-level performance, attracting experienced, well-capitalized operators nationwide. The latest agreement brings on the SMR Capital Group, a seasoned ownership team with extensive experience in multi-unit operations, franchise development, and business scaling across diverse industries.
“We continue to attract proven operators who see the strength of the Huey Magoo’s brand and our ability to scale,” said Andy Howard, President and CEO of Huey Magoo’s. “The SMR Capital Group brings the right combination of operational expertise and development experience, and we’re confident in their ability to successfully grow the brand across Texas.”
Led by Managing partner Muhammad Ali Akbar and Operating Partner Jason Gilbert, the group offers a powerful blend of multi-unit operating expertise, franchise growth leadership, and real estate-backed investment experience. The team brings a proven ability to deploy and scale capital while building and operating multi-unit businesses that have generated millions in annual revenue.
“We were deliberate in selecting a brand that aligns with our long-term growth strategy, and Huey Magoo’s stood out for its strong fundamentals and scalability,” said Muhammad Ali Akbar, Managing Partner. “We see a significant opportunity in our territory and look forward to building a high-performing portfolio across these markets.”
The new development agreement builds on a landmark year of growth for Huey Magoo’s. In 2025, the brand introduced a condensed 1,500-square-foot prototype that reduces buildout costs and speeds development, opening the door to smaller real estate options. Huey Magoo’s also launched its Magoo’s Rewards loyalty program, which saw strong early adoption among guests. The brand continued evolving its menu with the debut of Grilled Tender Bites and an expanded specialty handcrafted lemonade program, reinforcing its commitment to menu innovation while maintaining the quality and flavor fans know and expect.
Huey Magoo’s is rapidly expanding nationwide and is on track to reach 100 locations in 2026. With more than 85 locations across 12 states and an average unit volume of $2.1 million*, the brand offers a proven, scalable model supported by an experienced executive team. Franchisees commit to opening three stores over three years, helping build a strong local presence. Ideal candidates have restaurant experience or an operating partner who does. To learn more, visit hueymagoos.com/franchising or contact David Boatright at dboatright@hueymagoos.com. *Per Item 19 of the 2025 FDD.
ABOUT HUEY MAGOO’S
Huey Magoo’s is known for its uncompromising commitment to quality, serving premium, hand-crafted chicken tenders made from the best 3 % of the chicken—the tenderloin—for unmatched taste and texture. Every tender is 24-hour marinated and hand-breaded or grilled, and can be “sauced” and tossed with bold, fresh flavors.
Guests can customize their experience with tender meals, fresh-made salads, sandwiches, wraps and 10 signature sauces and dips. House-made specialties include hand-spun chips, freshly prepared coleslaw, banana pudding and signature dips like Magoo’s, Spicy Magoo’s and Ranch.
Founded in 2004, Huey Magoo’s is one of the fastest-growing fast-casual brands, earning multiple awards for its bold flavors and quality. With locations in 12 states and growing, Huey Magoo’s continues to bring premium ingredients and exceptional hospitality nationwide. Guests can order through Huey Magoo’s mobile app for easy pickup, delivery and rewards tracking. For more information, visit HueyMagoos.com.
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SOURCE Huey Magoo’s
