Lenard’s Chicken has kicked off its expansion plans, opening eight new redesigned stores across Australia.
The stores are the first in a plan to open a further 10 by the end of the 2016 calendar year. Lenard’s says it is aiming to double its footprint in the next five years.
The chain has used the new stores to introduce a ready-to-eat, hot chicken range aimed at the busy, health-conscious, modern customer.
“The Australian lifestyle has definitely changed since 1987, we are living in a much faster world with less time to cook,” said Chief Executive Officer of Lenard’s Chicken, Chris Caldwell.
“This has seen a huge shift in eating habits, people are looking for the fastest, and most convenient food option, but also the healthiest option. It has had a huge impact on our family-loved brand and pushed the need to service the modern-day family and consumer with fresh, easy and healthy alternatives.
The new ready-to-eat range includes free range roast chickens, hot pies, mini strudels and other hot offerings.
Newly designed stores have a modern, timber-infused fit-out and are located in Brisbane, Perth and Sydney.
Changes expected to boost profits
CEO Caldwell said the refreshed branding and new hot food range is expected to significantly boost sales.
“The fact chicken is one of the healthiest proteins has seen our following grow from busy mums to health-conscious millennials. Over the years we have sold more than 500 million chickens and served more than 200 million customers,” Caldwell said.
“The long awaited reinvigorated phase in the brand’s extensive history is just another chapter of our success story, bringing Australian’s delicious healthy chicken meals, and top quality convenient service,” he said.
In August 2015, Australian Food News spoke to Caldwell about Lenard’s Chickens expansion plans.