BirdShack expanding further
Published:Monday | February 5, 2024 | 12:08 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
BirdShack Fried Chicken is expanding its footprint in Jamaica, with the opening of two new stores in Montego Bay, St James, and Ocho Rios, St Ann this month.
The franchise inaugurated its third outlet on Barnett Street last Saturday, marking a milestone in its mission to dominate the fried-chicken market.
Wayne Cummings, the CEO of Arya QSR Limited, the operators of BirdShack, shared in a press release that the new store in Ocho Rios, which will be located at the new Bypass Plaza next to the Fesco Gas Station, will open officially on February 29.
This strategic move not only strengthens BirdShack’s presence in the resort towns, but also adds 50 more Jamaicans to the employment line.
In just two years, BirdShack has made significant inroads in the fried chicken market, and its ambitious plans include opening a total of nine stores by 2026.
Arya QSR Limited initially opened its first store at Whitter Village in Ironshore, followed by the Barnett Business Centre near Fairfield. The company’s growth trajectory continues with a fifth store scheduled for Drax Hall, St Ann, as Cummings revealed.
The company has invested a substantial $125 million in its initial two stores. While the details of the investment in the latest three stores remain undisclosed, Cummings expressed confidence that the 3,000 square-foot Ocho Rios superstore will quickly win the hearts of customers in St Ann and its surrounding areas.
Regarding the new Barnett Street location, this store is strategically positioned to cater to the bustling city centre, especially the multitude of pedestrians and public transportation passengers frequenting the area.
“We eagerly anticipate the opening of our fourth store,” said Cummings, his excitement palpable as BirdShack expands beyond its flagship city, Montego Bay.
“The initial goal is materialising seamlessly, and the team is thrilled to be consistently ahead of the development timelines. This bodes well for our franchise, poised to surpass the target of nine stores by the end of 2026,” Cummings added.
Acknowledging the challenges businesses face in recruiting staff, he expressed satisfaction that, with 100 employees already on the payroll, the team aims to employ 150 more Jamaicans by the time the fourth store opens.
“We couldn’t be happier that Jamaica continues to embrace BirdShack Fried Chicken, and with each new store, we are positively impacting the economic lives of many,” Cummings concluded.