Rumors are swirling that Chick-fil-A is coming to Stephenville. Here’s the real deal.
Updated: May 11, 2021
I’m not going to lie.
A spicy chicken sandwich from Chick-fil-A sounds pretty delicious right now.
In fact, it always sounds good, which is why I got super excited this afternoon when someone called to tell me that Chick-fil-A is coming to Stephenville.
I practically hung up on my friend before dialing the one person I knew would know: Jeff Sandford.
Sandford is the executive director of the Stephenville Economic Development Authority and my go-to for all things business.
The first thing he told me is that the rumor that Chick-fil-A is opening in the current Whataburger restaurant, which is expected to move into its new location in the next couple of months, is false.
Chick-fil-A usually purchases larger parcels of land for its restaurants, so moving there is a definite no-go, he said.
But there is still hope.
Sandford hinted that developers are considering a number of nationally recognized restaurants in Stephenville, including Chick-fil-A, but nothing has been finalized just yet.
“SEDA is working with a number of quality developers who partner with a variety of well-known, exciting retail and restaurant options currently analyzing the Stephenville market. These companies are experts in quick serve restaurant placement but are only in the analysis stage to determine what investments are sustainable within our regional demographic,” Sandford told Beneath the Surface News.
“We are pleased when rumors of possible new brands elicit excitement, however, it is premature to make any announcements until contracts are negotiated and signed. We look forward to moving past the analysis stage, and will keep everyone in the loop as deals get completed.”
Sandford also said that Chick-fil-A is among the most highly-requested restaurants by Stephenville residents.
So… keep your fingers crossed and stay tuned.
