Chick-fil-A Set To Open In Simi Valley

SIMI VALLEY, CA – Simi Valley is poised to welcome its first Chick-fil-A restaurant, set to open Thursday at 2460 Sycamore Drive. And in keeping with the Atlanta-based company's new store tradition is the "First 100 Campout," a parking-lot party where hardcore Chick-fil-A fans camp out and line up to be the first 100 customers through the doors to score a year of free meals.

The Simi Valley franchise owner and operator, Josh Alexander, began his career affiliation with Chick-fil-A after serving as a marketing intern at the business during his senior year at the University of Kentucky, and then stayed on with the fast-food chain, even meeting his wife, Hannah, at the restaurant.

The Alexanders wanted to relocate to Southern California and jumped at the chance to launch the Chick-fil-A in Simi Valley, the company said, adding that the pair is grateful for the community's support.

“One of the most fulfilling experiences I have as a successful business owner is providing every tool necessary to help individuals reach their full potential and career goals, paying forward all the learnings I have received from great mentors I have in my life,” Alexander said. “I look forward to continuing to strive for excellence every day through providing our freshly prepared food and award-winning customer service to our restaurant guests, as well as in the Simi Valley community.”

Registration for the overnight First 100 Campout was scheduled to begin in the restaurant parking lot at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 20. Up to 100 adults will win a digital-offer card pre-loaded with a year of free Chick-fil-A -- 52 meals consisting of a chicken sandwich, medium waffle potato fries and a medium beverage.

The community event is open to guests surrounding the restaurant with a list of eligible zip codes, and complete rules found at https://thechickenwire.chick-fil-a.com/News/Future-Openings.

Alexander said the celebration reflects his desire to positively support the local community from day one of opening his new restaurant. And becoming an operator is no small feat as the chain receives nearly 40,000 applications each year for approximately 125 franchise opportunities, company officials said.

The new, 5,000-square-foot eatery offers a two-story indoor playground, a drive-thru and in-restaurant dining with free wi-fi and vintage-inspired decor featuring a recycled peach-basket light and chandelier made from recycled Coke bottles, which hangs over a reclaimed-wood, community table.

Hours will be 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays, and closed on Sundays. Follow the new Simi Valley Chick-fil-A here on Facebook.

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--Image of Alexander courtesy of Chick-fil-A