Californian burger brand Carl’s Jr, part of Carl Karcher Enterprises (CKE), is planning to enter the UK’s restaurant segment.
In order to support its launch in the UK market, the restaurant brand has appointed business property adviser Christie & Co.
Christie & Co will be responsible for finding franchise partners to roll out the quick service restaurant (QSR) brand in the UK.
CKE EMEA International Development vice-president Thomas Kremer said: “It’s key for us to work with local partners like Christie & Co, to strengthen existing and new conversations with potential franchisees and build up new relationships, especially here in the UK.”
The American burger brand will be focusing on franchise partners with the capability to invest in high-traffic locations across the UK.
It plans to open stand-alone restaurant locations with areas of 150m² and more.
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By GlobalDataAdditionally, Carl’s Jr will also focus on opening stores with flexible formats in high streets and shopping centres.
The move to enter the UK market comes after a successful expansion in Europe, where the restaurant brand now operates more than 80 sites.
Over the last six years, Carl’s Jr has expanded its international presence by opening more than 1,000 restaurants in 40 countries.
By partnering with Christie & Co, Carl’s Jr is now seeking partners who can open at least 20 restaurants in their respective regions in the next few years.
Christie & Co Pubs, Restaurants and Franchise senior director Simon Chaplin said: “We are proud to have been chosen by this iconic brand to help them break into the UK market.
“Our extensive network of contacts, not only throughout the world of hospitality but entrepreneurs and investors from other sectors, will enable us to attract high calibre franchisees who can match the ambitions of Carl’s Jr.
“The brand has a proven customer appeal and a franchise model that works for both sides, so we expect some strong interest in the opportunity.”