As one of the UK’s leading kebab franchises, Doner Shack’s next step in their global expansion strategy will see the brand bringing its delicious QSR franchise to the American market, opening restaurants in 2025. It’s thanks to the extreme popularity of kebabs internationally that the Doner Shack team see significant potential in the US market, backed by over 200 prospective franchisee enquiries they have received in the past year.

 

As Europe’s favorite fast-food option, kebabs outsell the top 5 fast-food brands combined in the region 5 to 1, demonstrating the massive popularity of the product on an international basis. The predicted ‘kebab boom’ in the USA is a fantastic opportunity for prospective franchisees to get on board early and be at the forefront of this phenomenon. As the kebab is currently relatively unknown in America, with the right marketing, top-quality ingredients and Doner Shack’s tasty recipes, the product is set to become a staple across the US.

For those who desire a range of food choice, Doner Shack’s varied menu means that kebabs aren’t the only thing on offer. A delicious selection of sliders, buttermilk chicken tenders, wraps, loaded fries, milkshakes and breakfast mean there is something for everyone to enjoy.

 

The need for innovation

Co-founders of Doner Shack, Laura Bruce and Sanjeev Sanghera, have identified a growing interest in the American market for diverse food options. Their research suggests that Americans are increasingly eager to explore a variety of food options looking beyond traditional favorites like pizza and burgers, giving rise to a confidence that Doner Shack will be a leader in this new market.

 

Laura said, “We’ve always considered the US a key market for our brand, and we believe the potential here is huge. We’re confident that kebabs are set to become the next major global food trend. Our commitment in the US market is so strong that we’re planning to relocate our head office to the US, transitioning into an American company in the near future.”

 

Innovation at the brand headquarters comes as second nature. Doner Shack is a highly systemized, simple and easily scalable business model, delivering consistency, low wastage and with no requirement for skilled chefs. As a result, they serve guests at a lightning-quick speed.

 

“It’s due to our robust operational systems, authentic recipes, targeted marketing strategies, a strong financial model and a long-term growth strategy that our franchisees can build their own highly successful and profitable businesses. It’s made even more attractive because they’re simple, scalable and efficient, whether you’re looking to operate single or multiple restaurants,” explained Sanjeev.

 

Doner Shack is the first kebab brand internationally to introduce robotics and advanced operating procedures to prepare the food in its kitchens. Constantly driving toward greater efficiency in their restaurants, they ensure speed of service is best in class, as well as creating a safe and simple place to work for their staff.

And whilst delivering good food is Doner Shack’s number one objective, ensuring convenience is maintained is a close second. That’s why ease of access and flexibility are covered in the range of Doner Shack store designs. With an option to fit into any location or space where the team deem the demographics a winner for the brand, franchisees can tap into one of five store models. Two Stand-Alone models include one with the all-important Drive Thru, a Kiosk for travel hubs, food courts and sports arenas, an End Cap design for shopping centers and retail strips with easy access parking, and In-Line restaurants within retail environments.

 

The American Dream

Doner Shack’s primary long-term goal has always been to expand into America and with the QSR market size expected to rise to 662.53 billion USD by 2029, the timing has never been better. There is a huge gap in the market for European-inspired foods and the frequent dining and low-cost spending habits of young adults in America perfectly aligns with the franchise’s 18-34 target demographic.

 

Following two years of planning and negotiations, Sanjeev and Laura have built strong relationships with US suppliers and prospective franchisees, assembling the support network at a steady pace with people that have the hunger to build a franchise restaurant brand. It’s essential for them that the franchisees get the support they need in taking those first steps and any additional help along the way.

 

“Our ultimate goal is to become the number one kebab franchise in the world. We believe America is the route to achieve this – by focusing on not just each state, but each city and each individual franchisee developing in that area,” added Laura.

 

Franchise Expo South

The largest franchise expo in the south of the USA, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was chosen by Laura and Sanjeev as the perfect location for its first even on US soil. Their impressive new stand-build is great for potential investors to gain some insight into the opportunity, its menu and technology.

 

Sanjeev concluded, “The team’s first expo in Florida is the kick-off point for our US expansion strategy. As the largest franchise expo in the south, the opportunity to showcase our brand here is a great starting point. After this, we plan to utilize the connections we’ve made in the US and begin opening restaurants in 2025.”

 

Further afield

Doner Shack is also finalizing master franchise deals in the Middle East and Asia, further extending their global expansion strategy. Although America is the brand’s priority, other parts of the world can expect to see Doner Shack locations popping up within the next 12 months and will be well served from a base in the US.