US burger giant Carl’s Jr. instructs Christie & Co to find franchise partners for UK debut
In 2021, BigHospitality revealed that the 1,000 plus strong brand was looking to enter the UK market for first time following its success in mainland Europe.
Carl’s Jr. initially looked to find a master franchisee, but it is now looking to partner with multiple ‘ambitious’ hospitality entrepreneurs/investment groups who can open at least 20 restaurants in their respective region, in the next few years, ideally with extensive restaurant experience and the financial capability.
The QSR brand is looking for franchise partners with the capability to invest in high traffic locations in and around major towns and cities in the UK. Carl’s Jr. is focused primarily in developing standalone restaurants from 150 sqm and up, however it has a range of flexible formats to suit high street and shopping centre locations.
“We are confident that Carl’s Jr. has all the ingredients for success. This is a brand that will bring value into the market as it’s offering a unique proposal focused on great quality burgers and a memorable experience,” says general manager for Carl’s Jr. in Europe Tim Lowther.
“With over 80 years’ experience, the company is a renowned name in restaurant franchising. We have a tremendous team on the ground in Europe that has a good understanding of the UK market, and we are excited to be bringing this brand to our future guests in the UK.”
Founded in 1941, Carl’s Jr. is one of the most popular QSR chains in the world with restaurants in 28 markets worldwide. The company already has a presence in Europe, with 79 restaurants across France, Denmark, Spain, Turkey and Russia.
Carl’s Jr sits in what it calls the ‘QSR plus’ sector and says menu prices will be comparable or slightly above existing brands – most notably Burger King and McDonald’s.
It will be going head-to-head with a number of other US brands that have recently begun ambitious rollouts on these shores, not least Wendy’s and Popeyes.
