Zaxbys, a chicken restaurant chain known for its signature sauces, is scheduled to open in Campbellsville this spring. The restaurant will open on East Broadway Street between Little Ceasars Pizza and Smiley’s gas station. Zaxbys officials are hoping to bring not only more jobs, but career opportunities to the community.
“We’re developing local team members into future leaders and giving people a path to grow within our company,” said Dakota Berger, supervisor for Central KY Chicken LLC. “For us, it’s about building something long-term that positively impacts the community, not just opening another restaurant.”
Berger helped manage and supervise the Zaxbys in London, Kentucky, which opened in September of 2025. The Zaxbys in Campbellsville will be under the same supervision, with the goal of making the restaurant stand strong alongside its other locations.
“A lot of preparation is already happening behind the scenes,” said Berger. “We’re investing heavily in our people now so that when we open, we’re ready to operate at a high level from day one.”
The restaurant plans to get involved with the community by supporting local schools, athletics, nonprofits and events, according to Berger. The property was acquired from Ancil Reynolds Used Cars, with Rhonda Smith Realty facilitating the transaction between the land sellers and the Zaxbys franchise.
“It was probably an eight-month ordeal putting it all together,” said Rhonda Smith. “It was actually my first franchise restaurant I helped.”
Location is critical for any business, and Zaxbys wanted to find a location with strong traffic. The lot across the street from O’Reily Auto Parts was a perfect spot for them. Smith mentioned that other restaurants have also expressed interest in securing high-traffic locations like this one.
“[Restaurants] absolutely contribute to the growth of Campbellsville,” said Smith. “I’ve got three other franchises I’m working with now trying to find locations to help them come to Campbellsville.”
The Zaxbys alone will be introducing 60 to 70 jobs, according to Smith.
“All of a sudden, we’re drawing interest in,” said Smith. “About 65 to 75% of my clients moving in are from out of town or out of state.”
