Popular peri-peri chicken chain Nando's is significantly ramping up its presence across the United Kingdom, with plans to launch 14 new restaurants in the coming months. This aggressive expansion follows a period of strong financial performance for the company.
New Locations and Financial Performance
The restaurant group has confirmed it will open the new sites by February 2026, building on the 12 new locations it launched in the previous year. The confirmed list of towns and cities set to welcome a new Nando's includes Bedford, Derby, Peterborough, Bishop Auckland, Maidenhead, Sheffield, Edinburgh Gyle, Paddington, and Liverpool Edge Lane.
This expansion is backed by impressive financial results. For the financial year ending February 2025, Nando's reported an 8% increase in revenues to £1.48 billion. More strikingly, the company's operating profits more than doubled, reaching a substantial £146.6 million.
Navigating Future Challenges
Despite this positive momentum, Nando's has acknowledged upcoming headwinds. The company anticipates that increased cost pressures will impact its performance in the current fiscal year. These pressures are largely attributed to tax and wage hikes that came into effect in April.
In response, the group is not slowing down but is implementing strategic measures to manage these rising costs. Initiatives include focusing on productivity improvements and the widespread rollout of energy-efficient grills across its estate to control overheads.
Strategic Growth and International Ambitions
The UK expansion is a key part of Nando's broader growth strategy. While strengthening its foothold at home, where it is a beloved high-street staple, the company is also actively seeking to expand its wider international footprint. This dual approach indicates a confident brand poised for continued growth both domestically and abroad.
The planned openings signal a major investment in the UK's retail and hospitality sector, creating new jobs and offering more choices for diners across the country.
