Chick-fil-A announces huge expansion in Michigan — Here's where to expect new locations

(WWJ) It looks like Metro Detroit will have a couple of dozen more Chick-fil-A restaurant locations by the end of the decade.

The chain has announced that 25 to 30 new locally owned and operated restaurants are planned by 2028.

According to a news release. four restaurants are expected to open in Chesterfield Township, Roseville, Taylor, and Fort Gratiot by this fall or winter. Other planned locations include a licensed location in the First National Building, as well as owner/operator locations in Detroit, Auburn Hills, Lincoln Park, Orion Township, Clinton Township, Canton, and Ann Arbor.

The company says the move is expected to create over 2,500 jobs in the region.

There are also two restaurants in the Lansing/Jackson area, one in Saginaw and another in Benton Harbor all slated to open next year.

“With a unique blend of rural, suburban and city neighborhoods, Michigan is filled with tight-knit communities and proud residents. When looking to identify new opportunities to serve Guests and support local communities and economic development, expanding our presence in Michigan was a clear next step,” said Scott Mayson, Area Director for the Midwest Region in a news release. “For nearly a decade, our passionate local Owner-Operators have been serving the Great Lakes region, where they are committed to attracting and developing top talent, delivering delicious food and our signature hospitality, and building meaningful relationships in their communities. We are grateful for the opportunity to expand our care for Team Members and Guests with new restaurants across Michigan.”

Currently, Chick-fil-A has 28 restaurants in Michigan: Detroit Metro Airport, Detroit Medical Center, Eastern Michigan University, Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi, and Somerset Collection in Troy, as well as locations in Southfield, Northville, Shelby Township, Flint, Livonia, Allen Park, Woodhaven, Okemos, Monroe, Lansing, Battle Creek, Cascade, Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Portage, Kalamazoo, and Walker.

While the chain — known for it's chicken sandwiches, crispy nuggets, unique sauces and waffle fries — seems to be growing in popularity, the company has faced controversy for its historical donations to organizations that oppose same-sex marriage. Some Detroit-area residents have also complains of traffic jams associated with long drive-thru lines when a new Chick-fil-A opens in their community.