Basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal's fast-food venture, Big Chicken, will open in Arlington Heights this fall. The new location, which will replace an existing Arby's at 100 W. Rand Road, will be the second Big Chicken in Illinois. After the successful launch in Rosemont last year, Big Chicken aims to attract customers from the bustling Arlington Heights community.
Local franchisee Kaushik Patel expressed excitement about bringing the unique chicken brand to Arlington Heights, mentioning that the area's demographics and location make it an ideal spot for Big Chicken. Even though plans for a Schaumburg location have been paused due to a competitive bidding war, the franchise is committed to the suburb and is actively seeking alternative sites. Big Chicken's expansion comes as the village of Schaumburg also prepares to welcome New Freezeland Indian Vegetarian Restaurant to a nearby strip mall. As the fast-food industry continues to evolve, Shaq's Big Chicken is making its mark, with plans for additional suburban locations in the pipeline.