Popular US-style fast food chain that rivals McDonald's to open 10 new restaurants a YEAR in UK
A POPULAR US-style smokehouse chain that's fast becoming a rival to McDonald's is planning to open 10 new restaurants a year across Britain.
Hickory's Smokehouse, which already has a buzzing new branch in Milton Keynes, is firing up big plans to expand across the UK.
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The chain, founded in Chester in 2010, has been growing rapidly ever since pub giant Greene King bought it in 2022.
Bosses say they see a 'huge opportunity' to open more sites, even with the rising costs and economic pressures hitting the hospitality sector.
While many businesses are struggling, Hickory's says its sales have stayed 'strong' thanks to heavy investment and a focus on quality.
In 2024 alone, Hickory's opened six new restaurants, bringing the total to 26, and there's no sign of slowing down.
A £25million cash boost from Greene King has helped fuel the rapid expansion, with even more to come.
Excited fans in Milton Keynes were quick to praise the newest opening, with one diner raving online: 'Wow, it's finally open and what a great location with free parking – the food was amazing!'
Greene King and Hickory's plan to keep the pace up by opening 10 new restaurants every year until at least 2027.
They hope to triple the size of the chain by 2030, including converting some existing Greene King pubs into smokehouses.
John Welsh, managing director of Hickory's, said the company's focus on customer experience is keeping it strong even in a tough market.
'I don't think we've had a single year without big challenges,' he said.
'But we're seeing strong performance because we stay focused on giving customers a brilliant experience.'
The expansion drive will see another £10million invested this year alone.
This includes a £1million revamp of the original Hickory's in Chester, where it all began.
Greene King CEO Nick Mackenzie said Hickory's was proving to be a winning formula.
'Hickory's is a fantastic brand and its success proves there's a real appetite for its smokehouse experience,' he said.
'At a time when the sector is under pressure, Hickory's shows how strong investment and brilliant guest service can deliver real growth.'
He added: 'We're excited to build on this success and grow Hickory's into a truly national brand.'
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