A rapidly expanding chain known for its chicken and taters is on its way to Orillia.
Mary Brown’s is moving into the former home of A&W at 324 Memorial Ave., with a planned opening date of Oct. 29.
“A lot of people were asking for a location in Orillia,” said Alice Wong, Mary Brown's regional marketing manager for the area.
Wong said the company has a “loyal” customer base, and she attributed that to quality.
“Both the chicken and the taters are hand cut and hand breaded every morning,” she said, noting the food is made to order and won’t be sitting under a heat lamp.
“That’s why we’re not considered fast food, but quick serve.”
In fact, Wong added, Mary Brown’s is “the fastest-growing quick-serve franchise in Canada,” with approximately 170 locations.
Customers appreciate the use of Canadian products and ingredients, she said, including Canadian Grade A chicken.
“First and foremost, it is 100 per cent Canadian owned and operated,” Wong said.
If all goes according to plan, Orillians will be able to stop by at the end of the month to see for themselves what all the fuss is about and try the signature chicken and taters (the most popular menu item) and the Big Mary (almost as popular).
Approximately 25 to 30 people will be employed at the Orillia location.
