The owner of Belfast-founded burrito bar chain Boojum has signed up to bring US brand Dave’s Hot Chicken to Ireland and the UK.
Azzurri Group, which also operates ASK Italian, Zizzi and Coco di Mama, has hatched deal to launch 60 Dave’s Hot Chicken outlets.
The first outlet is due to open in London in the first quarter of 2025, with dozens more expected to open across the UK and the island of Ireland.
Founded in Los Angeles in May 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken has been described as one of the fastest growing restaurant brands in US history.
Notable investors include rapper Drake and actor Samuel L Jackson.
The deal comes just over a year after Azzurri acquired Mexican-style burrito bar chain Boojum in June 2023.
The first Boojum outlet was originally set up in Belfast by John and Karen Blisard during 2007.
In 2015, David and Andrew Maxwell partnered with Dublin-based Renatus to buy the company.
The burrito chain, which has 16 outlets on the island of Ireland, has now expanded in Britain.
Azzurri employs nearly 6,000 people across its portfolio of more than 230 restaurants and stores.
The hospitality group’s chief executive, Steve Holmes, said: “When we first tried Dave’s Hot Chicken we were blown away as it makes some of the most craveable and delicious food we’ve ever had.
“We’re excited to bring this incredible brand to the UK and to be their partner in this ambitious roll-out.”
Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken, said: “We know there is an opportunity to make Dave’s Hot Chicken one of the iconic restaurant brands, and we do that by partnering with incredible operators, like Azzurri Group.
“The flavour of Dave’s Hot Chicken resonates across borders, and we’re looking forward to the first UK store getting open soon.”
