Something’s definitely cooking in the British burger industry. Not only did McDonald’s recently announce impressive quarterly results thanks in part to excellent UK sales but this year has also seen the American artisanal-burger franchise The Counter set up shop on these shores. And the year isn’t over yet: Burger King has just announced it has a new British master franchisee.
Having reached a deal with Burger King Europe, Bridgepoint, the private-equity firm, now owns the rights to the franchise in Britain, having established a new Burger King UK entity that will enter into a 20-year master-franchisee agreement. At the same time, Bridgepoint revealed that it has acquired Caspian UK Group, the previous UK master franchisee, and its 74 restaurants across the country.
And it’s safe to say that the deal will help bring in a wealth of experience into the franchise’s UK operations. For starters, Bridgepoint is far from a novice when it comes to the restaurant industry. The equity firm has previously invested in Pret A Manger and the Azzurri Group, the restaurant group behind brands like Ask Italian and Zizzi. Additionally, Burger King UK’s leadership team will be spearheaded by new chairman Martin Robinson, who has previously been the chairman at the Casual Dining Group, Center Parcs and Wagamama.
Commenting on the deal, José Cil, president of Burger King, said: “We are thrilled to announce this agreement to increase the pace of growth for the Burger King brand in the UK, one of the world’s largest quick-service restaurant markets. The Bridgepoint team has extensive experience in the UK market and a strong track record investing in and developing leading brands in the quick service restaurant industry, which positions them well for success.”
Given that Burger King’s 500 UK restaurants are under new management and many more are likely on the way, budding burger franchisees will have plenty of opportunities to sink their teeth into in the new year. 
Eric Johansson
As web editor and resident Viking, Johansson ensures Elite Franchise is filled with engaging and eclectic entrepreneurial stories. While one of our most prolific franchise writers, he has sharpened his editorial teeth by writing about entertainment and fitness. Follow him on Twitter at @EricJohanssonLJ to catch up with his stream of consciousness.
Eric Johansson
As web editor and resident Viking, Johansson ensures Elite Franchise is filled with engaging and eclectic entrepreneurial stories. While one of our most prolific franchise writers, he has sharpened his editorial teeth by writing about entertainment and fitness. Follow him on Twitter at @EricJohanssonLJ to catch up with his stream of consciousness.
