Starbird Starts Franchising, Looks to Colorado

Starbird, a San Francisco-based brand serving “feel-good” crispy chicken, has taken flight.

The brand, led by founder and CEO Aaron Noveshen, announced the signing of its first franchise development agreement, which will bring seven locations to the Greater Denver market. The first location will open in Denver in mid-2025, marking the first time the brand has expanded outside California.

“Expanding beyond California for the first time is a landmark moment for Starbird and a testament to the demand for a new kind of fast food,” says Noveshen in a release. “Denver’s vibrant and discerning community is the perfect place to introduce our unique brand of chef-crafted crispy chicken.”

Brian Carmichall

In support of the expansion and ongoing franchise development efforts, Starbird has hired Brian Carmichall as vice president of business development. He has extensive expertise in franchise development and operations with brands like Dunkin’ and El Pollo Loco.

Starbird says it’s progressing on franchise development deals in key U.S. markets, including Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Seattle, San Diego and Chicago. It points to California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Illinois and Florida as having franchise opportunities.

Starbird’s menu features antibiotic-free chicken that’s always fresh, never frozen. Each piece is individually hand-breaded in a blend of gluten-free flours and spices, complemented by nine homemade dipping sauces.