The flame-grilled aroma of peri-peri chicken is set to reach more corners of the UK, as the iconic Nando's chain has officially confirmed a significant expansion plan. Following a year of impressive financial growth, the restaurant group is launching 14 new UK restaurants, with several sites already open and more scheduled to launch through to February 2026.
Strong Financial Results Fuel Growth
The decision for this substantial expansion is backed by robust financial performance. The company's latest accounts reveal that revenue climbed 8% to £1.48 billion in the year leading up to February 2025. This growth was primarily driven by consistently high customer demand for its signature dishes.
More strikingly, operating profits more than doubled, soaring from £59.8 million to an impressive £146.6 million. This substantial increase was attributed to stronger sales volumes and a one-off receipt, painting a healthy picture for the popular casual dining brand.
New Locations and Future Plans
The rollout of new sites is already underway, representing one of the chain's most significant UK expansion pushes in recent years. This follows the successful opening of 12 new venues in the previous year, indicating a sustained growth strategy.
Rob Papps, Nando's Group Chief Executive, stated: "We see significant potential in all our markets… with further menu innovation, digital enhancements and new restaurant openings planned, including 14 in the UK."
The confirmed locations for new Nando's restaurants include:
- Bedford
- Derby
- Peterborough
- Bishop Auckland
- Maidenhead
- Sheffield
- Edinburgh Gyle
- Paddington (London)
- Liverpool Edge Lane
In addition to these, five more UK sites are planned but have not yet been publicly announced, promising further access to Nando's famous sunset burgers, halloumi sticks, and extra-hot wings for thousands more customers.
Navigating Economic Challenges
Despite the positive results and expansion news, Nando's has also acknowledged upcoming challenges. The company warned that rising costs, including wages, taxes, and ingredient prices, are expected to put pressure on the business in the current year.
To counter these increased costs, the group is focusing on productivity improvements. A key initiative includes the rollout of more energy-efficient grills across its estate of restaurants in the UK and Ireland, aiming to maintain profitability while managing operational expenses.
Alongside strengthening its domestic presence, Nando's has outlined ambitions to grow its international footprint and increase the number of company-owned locations worldwide, signalling a confident global strategy for the future.
