Yolk Brands CEO Steve Flawith aims to open 50 BonBird locations within five years thanks to franchise deal
The UK is getting a fried chicken upgrade after a landmark franchise agreement with City Restaurants Group to introduce BonBird to the region.
Steve Flawith’s Yolk Brands is behind what is currently the UAE’s largest franchise agreement by a homegrown quick-service restaurant.
The transaction took just over one year to complete, but currently stands as one of the largest development schedules to be signed globally by franchise consultancy Presman & Colard, CEO Richard Kay said. “That’s a testament to the brand’s extraordinary growth potential.”
‘Just the beginning’
BonBird was launched by Flawith in Dubai’s City Walk in 2023, quickly solidifying its signature East London-style community chicken shop atmosphere. Locations quickly branched out after that, with BonBird now in three countries in the Middle East and Asia.
And the UK, Flawith’s stomping ground, is next on BonBird’s radar, with aims to open an ambitious 50 locations across key cities and regions within the next five years, with the first five rolling out in just one year.
“Bringing BonBird to the UK is a proud moment for myself and everyone at Yolk Brands; it’s a bit like a homecoming for me in many ways,” Flawith says.
“We’ve always believed in the global potential of the brand and this moment validates that vision. In City Restaurants Group, we know we’ve found the perfect partner to share in our passion for amazing fresh fried chicken. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to fulfil our vision for this amazing concept.”
City Restaurants Group CEO Omair Ali concurs with Dubai customers that BonBird, a beloved local brand, is a cut above the rest.
“At City Restaurants Group, we look for brands that stand out in a crowded market, and BonBird’s emphasis on fresh, premium chicken truly sets it apart. We’re delighted to have secured such a beloved Dubai-born brand like BonBird and we’re confident it will become a must-try destination for fried chicken lovers across the UK,” Ali said.
BonBird’s “all bird, no bull” ethos involves hormone, preservative and antibiotic-free chicken, that are available in bone-in and boneless options on five spice levels.
Pickl eyes UK move
BonBird and another popular Yolk Brands business, burger joint Pickl, are continuing the momentum with more opportunities on the horizon.
Along with its UK venture, BonBird is actively exploring opportunities in Europe, Asia and beyond, in addition to already successfully opening branches in Qatar and Pakistan.
Pickl is also mulling a UK move, the company reports, presenting itself as an exciting investment opportunity to bring another tried, tested and Dubai-born brand to the UK.
Source: Caterer Middle East
