Genesis BBQ Group has expanded into South Carolina, marking its entry into the 33rd U.S. state with the opening of two new bb.q Chicken locations in Indian Land and Greenville, the company announced on November 5.
The new outlets — bb.q Chicken Indian Land and bb.q Chicken Greenville — extend the chain’s footprint from existing Southeast hubs such as Florida, Alabama and Georgia into South Carolina, advancing its goal of operating across all 50 U.S. states.
South Carolina, a fast-growing Southeastern market, recorded a population of approximately 5.47 million in 2024, an increase of more than 90,000 from the previous year. The state’s median age is around 40, with a sizable proportion of younger consumers, and a median household income in the mid‑$60,000s, indicating stable purchasing power.
According to the International Franchise Association’s “2025 Franchise Industry Outlook,” South Carolina is projected to rank fifth nationwide in industry growth. The report forecasts roughly 1,200 new franchise openings in 2025, more than 210,000 new jobs, and an economic impact of about $19.5 billion. Genesis BBQ cited this growth potential in naming South Carolina a strategic base for its Southeast expansion.
The Indian Land store is a café‑style outlet of about 39.66 square meters (roughly 12 pyeong) with 12 seats. Located near the border of South and North Carolina, it is positioned to attract customers from both states and benefits from nearby Carolina Golf Club and large residential developments. The menu features signature items such as Golden Original, Secret Sauce Chicken and Honey Garlic, along with Korean side dishes like Chizling Fries and Kimchi Fried Rice.
The Greenville location focuses on delivery and takeout and is situated in a commercial area with restaurants and supermarkets. Close to Greenville Downtown Airport and Bob Jones University, the store is expected to draw a diverse customer base. In addition to chicken, the menu includes K‑food items such as Chicken Fried Rice and Rose Tteokbokki to offer local customers new flavors.
Genesis BBQ has been rapidly growing across the U.S. since opening on Manhattan’s 32nd Street in New York and expanding into New Jersey, Texas and California. Last year the chain opened stores in Tennessee, Nebraska, Arkansas and Indiana. This year it entered Utah (31st state), Oregon (32nd) and now South Carolina (33rd), continuing its expansion momentum.
A company spokesperson said, “South Carolina’s high franchise growth rate makes it a key strategic point for our Southeast expansion. These openings will accelerate our nationwide growth and strengthen the global brand status of K‑chicken.”
