Chick-fil-A CEO Andrew Cathy outlines private growth strategy and international expansion

Chick-fil-A reported a 14% rise in revenue to $10.3 billion for 2025, with net income reaching $1.05 billion, according to franchise disclosures. The privately held chain, now operating about 3,000 locations and generating $23.92 billion in system sales last year, remains the third-largest U.S. restaurant by sales after McDonald’s and Starbucks.

CEO Andrew Cathy told reporters in Manhattan that the company had “a good year,” attributing the performance to operators’ focus on fundamentals and hospitality. He emphasized that Chick-fil-A will stay private and pursue “calculated” and “conservative” growth, noting that the firm can plan for the long term without quarterly pressure.

The chain opened 179 restaurants last year and continues to expand internationally, with recent launches in Canada, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Cathy highlighted a $1 billion international expansion plan and a new beverage-focused concept, Daybright, developed by the company’s venture arm.

While exploring technology such as AI for back-of-house operations, Chick-fil-A will not adopt AI voice ordering in drive-thrus, saying the brand wants to preserve human-to-human hospitality. The company also maintains its traditional policies, including closing on Sundays, and continues to test seasonal menu items, adding successful offerings permanently.

Cathy said competition in the chicken segment is welcomed, noting that rivals push the chain to improve. He also referenced Red Wagon Ventures, the firm’s incubator that has launched projects ranging from a limited-time restaurant concept to a home-services business, aiming to leverage the company’s service expertise beyond its core restaurants.