American restaurant chain Denny’s eyes UK market
Denny’s, the American-based fast-casual dining chain, is to become the latest US import to the UK restaurant sector.
The group, which is famous for its Grand Slam breakfast, is looking for franchisees here in the UK to mark its European debut – following the likes of Chipotle, Ruby Tuesday and Taco Bell.
It hopes UK consumers will recognise the brand from trips to the US, particularly Florida where the brand has a strong presence.
Denny’s Corporation, which is led by interim chief executive and chairman Debra Smithart-Oglesby, operates around 1,500 restaurants worldwide, 90 per cent of which are franchised.
As well as breakfast, the restaurants also serve lunch and dinner menus comprising of 'American Classics' such as Homestyle Meatloaf, Country-fried Steak and Eggs and Prime Rib Sizzlin Skillet Dinner. A bargain menu is also available, featuring a Classic Burger and Fries for $8 (£5.22).
Bright future in UK market
Steve Dunn, a director of development at Denny’s, said: “Our brand is probably just as well known by English families as it is in Florida and California, as they make up one of the largest groups of diners that we see in Disney World.”
He added: “Following the recent emergency budget and the lowering of corporation tax, we see a bright future in the UK. This is a big incentive for our new franchisees, who will enjoy one of the best known restaurant brands in the world – a brand which is a long-term success story worldwide and now a corporation tax rate in the UK that will encourage expansion.”
Harold Butler founded the first Denny’s in Lakewood, California, under the name Danny’s Donuts, in 1953.
The company also runs restaurants in Canada, Costa Rica, Guam, Mexico, New Zealand and Puerto Rico.
Martyn Leek is news editor of BigHospitality's sister publication, M&C Report.
