Key facts
- Church's Texas Chicken opened its first mainland China location in Shanghai.
- Customers waited in line for over two hours.
- Queueing services were offered for up to $22.
- The chain plans to open at least 600 restaurants in China.
Church's Texas Chicken launched its first restaurant in mainland China on Friday in Shanghai, attracting significant customer interest with queues lasting over two hours. This opening occurs amidst a backdrop of cautious consumer spending in China, though the demand for affordable indulgences like fried chicken remains evident. The long lines even led to a secondary market where individuals offered to wait in queues for prices up to 150 yuan (approximately $22), exceeding the cost of a six-piece bucket.
Despite the initial enthusiasm, some social media users expressed skepticism about the long-term appeal, questioning if the hype would last and noting that some overseas menu items were not available. The company, founded in 1952, has ambitious expansion plans in China, having signed an agreement with operator Deke Shengtang to develop at least 600 restaurants across the country in the coming years. This move places Church's into a highly competitive market already dominated by established players like KFC, which boasts over 13,000 locations in China, and McDonald's, alongside numerous domestic chains.