Chick-fil-A CEO Vows No Smaller Portions as Prices Rise

Chick-fil-A CEO Andrew Cathy says the fast-food chain will not reduce portion sizes to offset rising costs, emphasizing that customers should continue receiving the food and experience they expect when dining at the popular restaurant. Cathy discussed the company’s approach to pricing, portion sizes, family ownership and future growth during his first-ever broadcast interview with NBC’s Today show, which aired in October 2026. The conversation comes as restaurant companies face pressure from higher operating costs and consumers become increasingly careful about how much they spend on meals.

Chick-fil-A Says It Will Not Shrink Portions

During the interview, host Craig Melvin asked Cathy whether Chick-fil-A had participated in shrinkflation, a practice in which companies reduce product sizes while maintaining or increasing prices. Cathy said the company would not take that approach. “We’re not going to do that. We’re not going to shrink product, and those sort of things,” Cathy said. He explained that customers have come to expect certain portions and experiences from the restaurant, and the company intends to maintain those expectations. The comments address a growing concern among consumers who have noticed smaller products and rising prices across multiple industries. For restaurants, reducing portions can be one way to manage expenses, but it can also frustrate customers who feel they are receiving less for their money.

CEO Says Pricing Decisions Require Caution

Cathy also acknowledged the financial pressures facing the restaurant industry, saying Chick-fil-A is approaching pricing decisions carefully as costs increase and customers weigh their dining options. “We’re very, very cautious about pricing and look at it, and know that, even though our costs are going up, we’ve got to be careful knowing that consumers are making that trade-off,” he said. He added that the company wants customers to feel they received good value for their money. The strategy reflects a balancing act for restaurant operators. Businesses must account for expenses such as ingredients, labor and operations while keeping prices attractive enough to encourage customers to return. For diners, the issue is straightforward: A meal that once felt affordable can become a less frequent purchase when prices rise faster than household budgets. Cathy’s remarks signal that Chick-fil-A wants to protect the customer experience rather than respond to higher costs by quietly reducing the amount of food customers receive. However, the comments do not mean prices will remain unchanged across the chain. Individual menu prices can vary by restaurant and location.