Wingstop Expands UK Presence with New Outlets and Job Creation

Wingstop, the fast-casual fried chicken chain, is set to open six new locations in the UK this year, which will create approximately 300 jobs and expand its workforce of 2,500 employees. The brand, recognized as a premium alternative to KFC, has gained popularity among celebrities, including rapper Stormzy. The first UK outlet was launched in 2018 by Lemon Pepper Holdings, the master franchisee, and the chain has since grown to 50 restaurants, with the latest opening in Bolton. The Bolton location, which opened on Monday, is expected to generate 60 new jobs in the area. To celebrate the milestone of reaching 50 locations, the first 100 customers at the new restaurant received free chicken wings. Chris Sherriff, co-CEO of Lemon Pepper Holdings, emphasized the significance of this achievement, highlighting the company's commitment to creating meaningful job opportunities and the rewarding nature of employee advancement within the organization. Founded in 1994 by Antonio Swad and headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Wingstop has expanded to over 2,200 franchise locations globally and claims to have served two million wings. The US company holds a minority stake in Lemon Pepper Holdings, which is actively pursuing further expansion in the UK, with plans to open new outlets in Crawley, Ealing, Manchester, Lakeside, Whitechapel, and Walthamstow. Despite recent reports of a potential sale process, which began following unsolicited interest from buyers, Lemon Pepper Holdings has not commented on the matter. Sherriff noted that the chain still has significant untapped potential in Britain, aiming to reach 200 locations within the next five years.