YouTube collective The Sidemen have announced plans to open 15 new Sides restaurants in 2026, significantly expanding their fried chicken chain. The brand, launched in 2021 in partnership with Hero Brands, currently operates five UK outlets and one international site in Singapore.
The expansion will focus on deepening the UK presence, with new locations planned in Scotland, Cardiff, and Liverpool. Internationally, Sides aims to enter India, Malaysia, and the UAE, while also strengthening its foothold in Singapore.
Aaron Moore-Saxton, managing director at Sides, said: “This is all about doubling down on growth for Sides during 2026. We’re seeing incredible momentum in the UK and rising demand internationally.”
The Sidemen, comprising KSI, Wroetoshaw, Miniminter, Vikkstar123, Zerkaa, Behzinga, and TBJZL, have 22 million YouTube subscribers. In a joint statement, they said: “We are seriously hyped to take this next step and bring even more people into our Sides journey.”
Sides joins a growing list of chicken brands expanding in the UK, including Popeyes, Wingstop, and Dave’s Hot Chicken, all of which have recently announced new openings.
