Raising Cane's, founded in 1996, has since expanded to 201 units in 15 states. The franchise prides itself on its high-quality chicken and sleek, simple menu. Customers love the chicken almost as much as franchisees love the store's straightforward operations. The secret to Raising Cane's success is more than its chicken and menu, however. The franchise's culture supports strong investment in the surrounding community, and franchisees have responded to this culture by using Cane's as a platform to help people in need. This approach has helped Cane's to earn a lot of business and even more good will.
Cane's raises a hand
Two communities touched by tragedy have recently received a helping hand, courtesy of Raising Cane's. In one instance, the Dallas Morning News reported the news of a Frisco family whose home had been devastated by a lightning strike. The subsequent fire brought the house to the ground, leaving the Johnson family without refuge. Thankfully, the local Raising Cane's stepped in to volunteer 15 percent of its sales during a four-hour fundraiser in late September. Attempting to bring a bit of levity to the situation, a friend of the family described the fundraiser as "a great reason to not have to cook." The move to host the event not only brought in new customers, but also demonstrated Raising Cane's palpable investment in the local community.
Raising Cane's also endeavored to make a difference for the homeless in late October. The Lincoln Journal Star reported that Raising Cane's contributed to the People's City Mission and the Homeless Prevention Center raincoat drive in Lincoln. Visitors who brought in raincoats for the drive were able to exchange their donations for a buy-one-get-one combo. The leaders of the initiative aimed to collect 2,500 raincoats for those without shelter from the elements, and Raising Cane's delicious entrees were a big help in raising awareness. The event is held once a year, but potential customers are sure to remember the restaurant chain's generosity year-round.
Growth in the Southwest
Community involvement and growth go hand-in-hand. Making a good impression on customers and nearby business owners will help a business to succeed in the long run. Greater community involvement makes it easier for business owners to select the right location for expansion units as well. Raising Cane's recent push in the Southwest shows the company's ability to work well with surrounding communities, especially in towns receiving second or third locations.
The clearest example of this growth took place in Dallas, where established connections with community members have translated into 25 stores in the area, said the Dallas Business Journal. ABC 15 reported that another Raising Cane's store recently opened its doors in Phoenix, making it the seventh store in the area. Raising Cane's has just acquired a permit to build a new store near San Antonio's Medical Center. The new chicken chain will soon reach a total of 65 units in Texas alone, demonstrating the franchise's strength in playing to its markets and knowing its own strengths.