Applecross Chicken Treat Closes: Redevelopment to Impact Fast Food Options

The Chicken Treat restaurant in Applecross, a western suburb of Perth, has permanently closed its doors, marking the end of an era for local fried chicken enthusiasts. The closure, confirmed by Chicken Treat CEO Jamie Stewart, stems from the expiration of the lease on the property, with the landlord opting for a significant redevelopment of the site. This comes as plans advance for a $60 million office complex at the 882 Canning Highway location, potentially reshaping the commercial landscape of the area.

A Prime Location Lost to Redevelopment

The Applecross Chicken Treat had been a fixture in the community, but the decision to close was ultimately outside of the company’s control. “Unfortunately, our Applecross store has now permanently closed. The lease for the premises came to an end, and the landlord has chosen to proceed with a redevelopment of the site,” Stewart explained in a statement. Marketing Manager Melissa Catenacci echoed this sentiment, describing the closure as “a shame” and acknowledging the store’s “beloved” status among customers. The loss extends beyond just Chicken Treat, as a neighboring Hungry Jack’s restaurant is also slated for demolition as part of the same redevelopment project, leaving a gap in fast-food options for residents.

The $60 Million Transformation of Canning Highway

The redevelopment project, spearheaded by MW Urban, envisions a mixed-use site primarily focused on office space. Plans, which received approval from the Metro Inner Development Assessment Panel in January, call for a multi-story building with three retail shops on the ground floor, a restaurant, and office spaces occupying the upper levels. Detailed plans submitted to the City of Melville outline the scope of the project, signaling a shift towards commercial development in the area. The project’s scale – a $60 million investment – underscores the perceived value of the Canning Highway location and the potential for attracting businesses to the area.

Chicken Treat’s Leadership Transition and Expansion Plans

The closure of the Applecross location arrives as Chicken Treat navigates a leadership transition. Jamie Stewart took the helm as CEO in January 2026, succeeding Mimma Battista, who had led the company for over eleven years. Stewart’s appointment, announced by Craveable Brands (Chicken Treat’s parent company), reflects a focus on operational expertise and franchise development. Stewart, previously COO at Sushi Sushi, is based at Chicken Treat’s Osborne Park office in Perth and will operate closely with franchise owners across Western Australia.

Despite the Applecross setback, Chicken Treat is actively pursuing expansion. Stewart highlighted the recent successful openings of modern stores in Golden Bay and Anketell, demonstrating continued community support for the brand. He emphasized the company’s commitment to growth, stating, “For now, we’re focussing on our existing network but rest assured, we will continue growing as Perth does.”

A Milestone Year for the Fast-Food Chain

2026 marks a significant milestone for Chicken Treat – its 50th anniversary. Stewart points to this longevity as a testament to the brand’s enduring popularity with West Australians. “Chicken Treat is turning 50 this year, a milestone very few Fast Food restaurants can claim. It’s a testament to how much we are loved by West Aussies. Despite tough competition in the category and other economic factors, West Aussies continue to reach for Chicken Treat as their favourite chicken and chips!” This anniversary comes at a time of increased competition within the fast-food sector, but Chicken Treat appears confident in its ability to maintain its market position.

Impact on the Local Economy and Consumer Choice

The redevelopment project will undoubtedly have an impact on the local economy. While the construction phase will create temporary employment opportunities, the long-term effects are more complex. The loss of two fast-food outlets will reduce consumer choice in the immediate area, potentially driving traffic to other restaurants in neighboring suburbs. The influx of office workers, although, could stimulate demand for local businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and retail stores. The shift from fast-food to office space also reflects a broader trend towards commercial development in Perth’s inner suburbs.

Navigating a Competitive Landscape

Chicken Treat operates within a highly competitive fast-food market in Western Australia. Major players like KFC, McDonald’s, and Hungry Jack’s all vie for market share. The appointment of Jamie Stewart signals a strategic focus on strengthening the brand’s position and adapting to evolving consumer preferences. The company’s emphasis on franchise partnerships and community engagement will be crucial in maintaining its loyal customer base.

Looking ahead, Chicken Treat will likely continue to focus on expanding its network of stores, enhancing its menu offerings, and leveraging digital technologies to improve the customer experience. The company’s ability to navigate the challenges of a competitive market and capitalize on emerging opportunities will be key to its long-term success. The closure of the Applecross store, while regrettable, appears to be part of a larger strategic shift towards sustainable growth and innovation.