Jack in the Box, a US-based franchisor of quick-service restaurants, is set to open eight new outlets across Chicago, Illinois in 2025.

The eight company-operated units mark the brand’s return to the city after a hiatus of more than 40 years.

Jack in the Box, known for its burgers, tacos, milkshakes and chicken sandwiches, operated in the Chicago area in the 1960s but exited the market in the 1980s. 

It has now identified more than 125 potential trade areas for future corporate and franchise development in the region.

Traditional freestanding restaurants, drive-throughs, endcaps [end of aisle locations], existing building conversions and dark kitchens are some of the venue types identified for the expansion.

The latest move builds on the brand's expansion in the states of Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, Montana and Wyoming, and in Mexico.

The new outlets will be open twenty-four hours a day and provide drive-through, mobile and dine-in options.

Jack in the Box CEO Darin Harris said: “This strategic expansion into Chicago allows us to not only satisfy long-standing customer demand for our brand, but also to become a key member in the region’s thriving restaurant scene.

“We’re excited to bring our unique menu where customers can order any item at any time – day or night. We’re confident Jack in the Box will quickly become a favourite local destination.”

In June 2024, Jack in the Box reached a development agreement to open 15 new restaurants across the US state of Georgia.

The move is the brand's first entry into the Peach State and part of its growth plan in the southeastern region of the country.