Nando’s has become a household name in the United Kingdom, famous for its flame-grilled peri-peri chicken and vibrant, casual dining atmosphere. Since opening its first UK restaurant in the early 1990s, the South African-born chain has expanded rapidly across the country, attracting everyone from students on a budget to celebrities looking for a relaxed meal. With over 450 outlets across the UK, Nando’s has developed a strong reputation as one of the most popular casual dining brands. Naturally, many aspiring entrepreneurs wonder whether they can buy into this success by franchising a Nando’s branch in the UK.
The Growth of Nando’s in the UK
Nando’s entered the UK market in 1992, opening its first restaurant in Ealing, West London. The brand quickly struck a chord with British diners thanks to its unique peri-peri sauce, Portuguese-inspired recipes, and laid-back, fun atmosphere. Over the next three decades, the company expanded aggressively, becoming a staple presence in nearly every major city and town. Its distinctive mix of affordable meals and high-quality service allowed it to thrive, even as other casual dining chains struggled. Today, Nando’s is as much a part of British food culture as fish and chips or the Sunday roast.
This immense popularity has led many people to ask the same question: how do you open a Nando’s of your own? The short answer is more complex than many might expect.
Do Nando’s Franchise in the UK?
Unlike some international fast-food giants such as McDonald’s or Subway, Nando’s does not currently franchise in the UK. The majority of UK outlets are directly owned and operated by Nando’s Group Holdings. This means that decisions about locations, menus, branding, and operations remain tightly controlled by the parent company rather than being outsourced to independent franchisees.
There are some exceptions in other countries. In certain markets outside the UK, Nando’s has been known to operate under a franchise model. However, within Britain, the company has chosen to maintain consistency by keeping restaurants company-owned. This strategy allows them to carefully protect their brand identity, customer experience, and quality standards.
For potential investors, this might come as disappointing news. The UK market is already highly saturated with Nando’s branches, and the company has made no public indication that it plans to open franchising opportunities domestically anytime soon.
Why Nando’s Avoids Franchising in the UK
Nando’s decision to operate primarily as a corporate-owned chain rather than a franchise can be explained by several factors. First, controlling its own outlets ensures that the brand delivers a consistent customer experience across all locations. This consistency has been vital in maintaining its strong reputation.
Second, the UK remains one of Nando’s most profitable and strategically important markets. By keeping restaurants under its direct ownership, Nando’s maximises its revenue and maintains flexibility in decision-making. Franchise agreements often require companies to share profits and limit control, which may not align with Nando’s growth strategy.
Finally, the brand’s distinct culture and image are central to its appeal. From the art on the walls to the specific way dishes are prepared and served, Nando’s prides itself on offering more than just food. By avoiding franchising in the UK, it safeguards that culture from being diluted or mismanaged.
Alternative Opportunities
For those who are still eager to invest in the food and beverage industry, the UK offers many other franchise opportunities. While Nando’s may be off the table, numerous fast-food, coffee shop, and casual dining brands continue to expand through franchising. Businesses like Domino’s, Costa Coffee, and Subway have long histories of successful franchising in the UK, providing models for entrepreneurs to explore.
Summary
Nando’s may be one of the UK’s most beloved restaurant chains, but it is not available for franchising within the country. Instead, the company operates its restaurants directly, ensuring consistency and protecting its unique brand culture. While this may be disappointing for those hoping to open a Nando’s of their own, the UK food industry remains full of alternative franchise options. Ultimately, the success of Nando’s shows the power of a carefully managed brand, and for aspiring entrepreneurs, it offers lessons in how strong identity and consistency can drive long-term growth.