Australian Mexican Restaurant Chain Zambrero Announces Major South West Expansion
Zambrero, Australia's largest Mexican quick-service franchise, has unveiled ambitious plans to significantly expand its presence across the South West of England over the next three years. The Australian-owned food chain, which specializes in Mexican-inspired cuisine, aims to open a host of new outlets throughout the region, creating approximately 135 new employment opportunities.
Strategic Development and Job Creation
The company has appointed three dedicated development agents—James Fleck, Michelle Jelfs, and Sarah Preston—to spearhead this expansion across key areas including Bristol, Dorset, Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall. Their primary responsibility will be franchise partner recruitment, with a target of opening at least nine new restaurants. These establishments will offer a mix of full-time and part-time roles, contributing to local employment markets.
Initial development efforts will concentrate on larger towns and cities within the South West region. Targeted locations include Bath, Bournemouth, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Poole, Taunton, and Weston-super-Mare. The company plans to secure sites in high-footfall areas such as prominent high streets, major shopping centres like Cabot Circus and Cribbs Causeway in Bristol, retail parks, and roadside destinations to maximize visibility and customer access.
Broader UK Growth Strategy
This South West initiative is part of Zambrero's broader strategy to open 100 restaurants across the United Kingdom by 2030 through strategic franchise partnerships. Since its UK launch in 2021, the chain has established 14 restaurants in locations including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Reading, Essex, and Glasgow.
In addition to the South West expansion, the development agents will also oversee growth in the West Midlands, with plans to open at least 12 restaurants via franchise partners in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Solihull, Walsall, Leamington Spa, and Worcester over the same three-year period. The team will provide comprehensive support including location acquisition, operational guidance, brand integrity maintenance, regional marketing activation, and business strategy development.
Company Vision and Franchise Opportunities
James Fleck, one of the newly appointed development agents, expressed enthusiasm about joining the Zambrero team. "We're incredibly excited to join the Zam Fam at such a pivotal stage in the brand's growth," said Mr. Fleck. "Having worked within the hospitality industry for many years, it is clear to me that Zambrero truly stands out—from its fresh, high-quality Mexican food and modern restaurant design, to its positive culture and clear sense of purpose."
Mr. Fleck added, "We're actively seeking passionate, committed, and like-minded franchise partners to join us in expanding Zambrero across the South West. For ambitious entrepreneurs ready to lead the way in the South West, now is the time to join us on this exciting journey."
Global Brand Presence
Zambrero has grown into a significant global brand through its successful franchise programs, now operating more than 350 restaurants across Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The company holds the distinction of being the largest Mexican restaurant franchise in both Australia and Ireland, demonstrating its proven business model and international appeal.
This expansion represents not only substantial job creation but also increased dining options for residents across South West England, bringing fresh Mexican-inspired cuisine to new markets while supporting local economic development through franchise opportunities.
