Chick-fil-A, the renowned American fast-food chain, is expanding into the UK market with five new restaurant locations. This marks the brand’s first foray outside North America, where it operates over 3,000 locations across the USA, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The expansion signifies a commitment to invest more than $100 million (£75.43 million) in the UK over the next decade.
New Chick-fil-A Locations in the UK
The upcoming Chick-fil-A restaurants are set to open in the following locations:
- Leeds
- Liverpool
- London
First Opening Date
The Leeds restaurant, situated at 34-35 Commercial Street (LS1 6EX), is scheduled to open on Thursday, October 23, 2023. This new branch is expected to create between 70 and 120 jobs for the local community.
Progress and Challenges
Chick-fil-A’s history in the UK includes a brief attempt in 2019, when it opened a restaurant in Reading, which was later closed due to protests from LGBTQ+ advocates. A second location opened in Aviemore, Scotland, but did not last beyond January 2020.
Controversy surrounding the chain arose from its founders’ support of Christian groups opposed to same-sex marriage. Despite this, Chick-fil-A has made efforts to distance itself from these associations by cutting funding to those organizations. The brand aims to focus on its culinary offerings as it launches its latest UK expansion.
Competitive Landscape
Chick-fil-A is not the only American fast-food chain targeting the UK market. Other notable brands, including Popeyes, Carl’s Jr., Dave’s Hot Chicken, and Captain D’s, are also expanding their presence across the country.
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