FFS Brands Reveals Aggressive Expansion Plans for Southern Fried Chicken
UK based QSR franchise Southern Fried Chicken has enjoyed a period of strong growth over the last 12 months, having opened master franchises in 5 new countries.
Ambitious plans to expand its international presence further means that the company will be targeting 120 fully franchised sites within the next three years, says UK based President of SFC, Chris Gibson.
“We are forging a strong presence in new areas, including Eastern Europe and the Middle East, as well as in East Africa and the Caribbean,” he says. “We are experiencing particular success in emerging areas, where some of our competitors have not yet established a presence, but where new Southern Fried Chicken franchises are scheduled to open over the coming months. The high quality of our offering, the affordable set up costs and a comprehensive support for rapid business development are proving highly attractive to potential master franchisors, who recognise the scale of the opportunity.”
Affordable investment
“Southern Fried Chicken offers all the benefits of a ‘big brand’ QSR, but at much more affordable cost,” Chris Gibson goes on to say. “Master Franchise owners have the opportunity to develop a chain of owned stores, or recruit franchisees; whichever option is agreed, we will provide maximum support for an agreed expansion programme over the first two to three years.”
FFS has also chosen to manufacture its own specialist catering equipment via its sister company Vizu Brand Equipment, in addition to its own range of seasonings and sauces. This, believe FFS, gives Southern Fried Chicken an extraordinary degree of independence and flexibility in developing its markets and its menus.
The business model has helped Southern Fried Chicken to grow a network of over 700 stores in 70 countries worldwide.
Fresh new style
Alongside the large international push, the company is also rolling out a new look for its restaurants – featuring fresh colours and contemporary images. According to Chris Gibson, the new look was designed to convey a brighter, fresher look to match their new menu. The first restaurant to unveil the new look opened in May in Herstal, Belgium.
“The store at Herstal in Belgium was converted from a Buffalo Grill situated at a busy interchange, which demonstrates the importance of investing in a prime location,” says Chris Gibson. “We were offering not only a vibrant new dining environment, but also a fresh new menu influenced by brand’s newly launched sister franchise, AJ’s Piri Piri, bringing grilled chicken alongside our legendary southern fried chicken.”
In recent years the fast food market worldwide has experienced rapid growth with more consumer spend on quick service catering than ever before, but also a rising demand for healthier food options. This is the secret of Southern Fried Chicken’s success, says Gibson.
“The roll out internationally of Southern Fried Chicken and the launch of AJ’s Piri Piri is absolutely spot-on for investors looking to embark on a new venture, with a well-established and proven brand, with the support of a highly experienced management team.”
