A fresh contender is poised to stir up the UK’s fried chicken scene with 50 new restaurants.
Dubai-based chain BonBird has revealed an ambitious blueprint for launching in the UK. With a modest cluster of outlets scattered in the Middle East, BonBird aims to open numerous venues within the span of five years.
Following a year-long negotiation process, the chain’s proprietors have formally signed off on a significant franchise deal recently. No locations have yet been announced for the new eateries.
Boasting a mantra of ‘making chicken great again’, BonBird’s menu flaunts an assortment of mouth-watering options including chicken tenders, burgers, wraps, rice bowls, and a medley of sides.
Their chicken offerings are accompanied by a quintet of flavours: zesty lemon and pepper, the classic ‘ck’n salt’, alongside graduated spicy alternatives of medium, hot, and ‘XXX hot’.
As per an article in Caterer, the partnership forged between Yolk Brands, the chain’s parent entity, and City Restaurants Group, for ushering BonBird into the UK market is hailed as the UAE’s “largest franchise agreement by a homegrown quick-service restaurant.”
The brainchild of Dorset-raised and Dubai-based restaurateur Steve Flawith, BonBird debuted in Dubai’s City Walk in 2023. Since its inception, the brand has rapidly expanded its footprint with three additional locales within the UAE, complemented by outlets in Doha, Qatar, and Lahore, Pakistan, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Flawith told to Caterer: “Bringing BonBird to the UK is a proud moment for myself and everyone at Yolk Brands; it’s a bit like a homecoming for me in many ways.
“We’ve always believed in the global potential of the brand and this moment validates that vision. In City Restaurants Group, we know we’ve found the perfect partner to share in our passion for amazing fresh fried chicken.
“This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to fulfil our vision for this amazing concept.” City Restaurants Group CEO Omair Ali added: “At City Restaurants Group, we look for brands that stand out in a crowded market, and BonBird’s emphasis on fresh, premium chicken truly sets it apart.
“We’re delighted to have secured such a beloved Dubai-born brand like BonBird and we’re confident it will become a must-try destination for fried chicken lovers across the UK.”
Another Yolk Brands chain, burger firm Pickl, is also considering expansion into Britain.