Goodbye KFC: the new 'Fried Chicken King' takes the US by storm with this innovation

In the United States, the competition among fast food chains keeps bringing surprises. While some brands like KFC keep their place, others are emerging strongly thanks to unexpected decisions. Now, one of them has decided to bring back a product that its customers had been demanding for years.

With this move, a chain from the southern part of the country is making headlines. This is Zaxby’s, a restaurant founded in Georgia, which has brought back one of its most beloved offerings: milkshakes. This comeback has been so well received that it has sparked an unexpected craze across the country.

The Sweetest Comeback of the Year

Zaxby’s was founded in 1990 in Statesboro, Georgia, and since then it has grown to have more than 940 locations in 17 states. Although it is famous for its crispy chicken, its wings, and the famous Zax Sauce, it also became known for its milkshakes, which were offered as the perfect complement to its dishes. In 2013, it officially added milkshakes to the menu to better compete with other similar chains.

Zaxby’s milkshakes were handmade, served with whipped cream, colorful sprinkles, and a classic-style cherry. This combination won over many chicken fans, especially in Georgia, where it is common to pair chicken with a thick milkshake. However, in 2017 the brand decided to remove them from the menu due to operational issues, which caused disappointment among its most loyal followers.

Despite their removal, the memory of those milkshakes stayed alive. For years, comments on social media and forums of the chain Zaxby’s fans kept insisting they should return. The pressure was constant and the company listened.

A Local Test That Became a National Success

Seven years after their disappearance, Zaxby’s decided to bring back its milkshakes, but only in a limited test, according to The Street. They did so in collaboration with Visit Macon, a local tourism organization, with the goal of attracting more visitors to the city and seeing how the public would respond. The reaction was so positive that they quickly expanded the experiment to 500 locations at the beginning of this year.

The brand listened to its customers and, according to its Chief Marketing Officer Patrick Schwing, "Zaxby’s delicious milkshakes have returned after years of requests from our most loyal fans." The success was overwhelming and now the milkshakes are returning permanently nationwide as part of the celebration of its 35th anniversary.

As part of the launch, Zaxby’s has introduced a special offer: until June 1, all 20 oz. (591 ml) milkshakes will be 50% off at participating locations. The available flavors include chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, whipped cream, and a special birthday cake flavor. With this comeback, Zaxby’s is not only winning over palates, but also the nostalgia of an entire generation that grew up with its flavors.