Chick-Fil-A Fans Camp Out For Solon Opening

SOLON, OH — The new Solon Chick-Fil-A restaurant welcomed its first customers at 6:30 a.m. Thursday. Fans of the chain's chicken sandwiches were lining up more than 12 hours before the grand opening though.

More than 50 people camped out overnight at Chick-Fil-A on SOM Center Road, hoping to win a year's free supply of meals from the restaurant. The first 100 customers received the prize and at least 50 people were eager to ensure they got their free chicken.

The first 100 customers received a digital offer card loaded with 52 meals consisting of a Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich, medium waffle fries and a medium beverage.

The Solon location is at 6150 SOM Center Road. The restaurant is nearly 5,000-square-feet and features a retro, vintage interior design and a two-story playroom for kids. There are dual drive-thrus, merging into a single pick-up lane. Nearly 100 people have been hired to work part-time or full-time at the restaurant.

“I am excited to open Solon’s first Chick-fil-A and have an opportunity to serve the community both inside and outside my restaurant,” said Chris Aey, the operator of the Solon location. “My team and I are committed to providing Second Mile Service as we strive to enrich the lives of all our guests and give back to the metro-Cleveland community who has so graciously supported the brand.”

For more background on Aey and his family, read Patch's article announcing the opening of the Solon Chick-Fil-A.