Roots Chicken Shak is spreading its wings. T2D Concepts, the hospitality group founded by chef Tiffany Derry and Tom Foley, will open the first franchised location of the fast-casual fried chicken concept in Addison. The new restaurant, located at 3748 Belt Line Rd, Suite 118, is expected to open by late July or early August 2025.
The Addison outpost will be operated by franchisees Corey and Marian Epperson, who share T2D’s mission to deliver “hospitality with purpose.”
The announcement marks the first step in the group’s plan to expand Roots Chicken Shak nationwide through a franchise model designed to prioritize community impact over traditional financial barriers.
A New Path for Franchise Ownership
Rather than requiring hefty net worth statements or high credit scores, T2D’s franchise model centers on shared values. Potential owners are evaluated first on their passion for hospitality and commitment to excellence. Restaurant experience is essential, but large bank accounts are not.
“Our mission at T2D Concepts is to practice hospitality with purpose,” Foley said in an official statement. “We designed this model with the intention to shift the franchise system and provide pathways for marginalized community members to operate their own business.”
To help franchisees overcome financial hurdles, T2D connects them with aligned funding partners, local governments and mission-driven companies. It’s a system that aims to expand opportunity, not just profit.
Chicken with a Cause
The menu at Roots Chicken Shak is anchored by duck fat-fried chicken, a signature item from Derry’s Southern cooking playbook. The concept pairs comfort food with conscious practices, such as reducing food waste and operating in streamlined spaces that keep overhead costs low.
Derry, a celebrated chef and former Top Chef contestant, said her personal experiences shaped the franchise vision. “As a Black female, I understand and empathize with the challenges of breaking into and becoming successful in the hospitality industry,” she said in an official statement.
“That’s why this endeavor is so important — to provide under-resourced individuals the opportunity and resources to build a better life for not only themselves, but also the communities they live in.”
More Growth on the Horizon
The Addison location joins two existing Roots Chicken Shak restaurants in Plano and Austin. A third company-owned location is planned for DeSoto. But the franchise model means growth won’t stop there. T2D is actively seeking owner-operators with restaurant experience and a drive to make a difference.
Interested candidates can apply at rootschickenshakfranchising.com.
T2D Concepts also operates Roots Southern Table, Radici, and ‘Shef Tiffany, a spice and apparel brand. All ventures are guided by the group’s mission to use food as a vehicle for connection, equity and change.
More details about the Addison opening, including the official date and grand opening events, will be announced in the coming weeks.
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