A quick-serve chicken tender chain is expanding its growth plans for the Lone Star State.
Orlando-based Huey Magoo’s has signed a 15-unit development agreement for Texas with SMR Capital Group, growing the chain’s presence in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston and Montgomery counties. Earlier this year, Huey Magoo’s signed a development totaling 12 restaurants, marking the brand’s entry into Texas with eight locations planned.
“We continue to attract proven operators who see the strength of the Huey Magoo’s brand and our ability to scale,” said Andy Howard, president and CEO of Huey Magoo’s. “The SMR Capital Group brings the right combination of operational expertise and development experience, and we’re confident in their ability to successfully grow the brand across Texas.”
Huey Magoo’s said it is on track to reach 100 locations in 2026. The brand, which was founded in 2004, currently operates more than 85 locations across 12 states.
2025 was a strong year for Huey Magoo’s. In the final quarter of the year alone, Huey Magoo’s expanded its footprint across the south, with new restaurants opening in Tupelo, Miss., Cornelia, Jesup, and Macon, Ga., Brookline, Mo., and Jacksonville, Fla.
Last year, the brand also introduced a condensed 1,500-sq.-ft. prototype that reduces buildout costs and speeds development, in addition to launching its Magoo’s Rewards loyalty program.
“We were deliberate in selecting a brand that aligns with our long-term growth strategy, and Huey Magoo’s stood out for its strong fundamentals and scalability,” said Muhammad Ali Akbar, managing partner at SMR. “We see a significant opportunity in our territory and look forward to building a high-performing portfolio across these markets.”
