Carl's Jr. to enter UK market after signing agreement with Boparan

Under the agreement, BRG will open, operate and franchise restaurants throughout the territory as the exclusive Carl's Jr. developer.

Restaurant ​first revealed back in 2021​​ that Carl's Jr. was looking to enter the UK market.

In March last year it was announced that the brand, which currently operates across more than 35 international markets, had instructed property agent Christie & Co to seek out franchise partners​​ to facilitate a national rollout.

"Carl's Jr.'s international success speaks for itself,” says Satnam Leihal, CEO of BRG.

“The brand offers fantastic food quality and brilliant innovation, and we look forward to replicating the experience in the UK.

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences, and we look forward to introducing Carl's Jr. to the UK and Irish markets.”

Founded in 1941, Carl’s Jr. is one of the most popular QSR chains in the world, operating more than 3,600 franchised or company-operated restaurants across its US and international footprint.

The brand has previously said it sits in what it calls the ‘QSR plus’ sector and that menu prices will be comparable or slightly above existing brands – most notably Burger King and McDonald’s.

BRG has already demonstrated its ability to successfully grow a US brand in the UK. The group brought US-founded fast casual brand Slim Chickens to the UK in 2018 and has so far grown it to 52 sites across the country.

"BRG has a proven record of success and shares our vision for Carl's Jr. in the UK,” says Mike Woida, president of CKE International, which owns Carl's Jr.

“We look forward to serving our guests in the region as we continue our path toward global growth.”