Popular restaurant chain Nando's has unveiled an ambitious expansion plan, confirming it will open 14 new locations across the UK by February 2026. The announcement comes as the company reports robust sales growth and doubled operating profits, demonstrating strong consumer demand for its flame-grilled peri-peri chicken.
Expansion Locations and Growth Strategy
The company revealed its expansion strategy on Thursday, November 20, 2025, identifying specific towns and cities set to welcome new branches. According to the PA news agency, the new restaurants will open in Bedford, Derby, Peterborough, Bishop Auckland, Maidenhead, Sheffield, Edinburgh Gyle, Paddington and Liverpool Edge Lane.
This expansion represents an acceleration of Nando's UK growth, exceeding the 12 sites opened during the previous year. The group has outlined a dual approach focusing on increasing company-owned restaurants while simultaneously expanding its international presence through franchised locations outside Europe.
Financial Performance and Economic Challenges
Nando's reported impressive financial results, with revenues reaching £1.48 billion for the financial year ending February 23, 2025. This represents an 8 per cent increase compared to the previous period, driven by what the company describes as "strong customer demand" leading to higher sales volumes.
Even more notably, operating profits more than doubled to £146.6 million, supported by stronger sales and a one-off receipt. The half-year to August also showed continued sales growth, with the company reporting it has been "encouraged by customer demand."
However, Nando's issued a cautious note about the upcoming financial year. The company warned that cost pressures, particularly from tax and wage increases implemented in April, could impact performance for the 2025/26 financial year.
Managing Costs and Future Outlook
To counter increasing expenses, Nando's has been implementing various cost-saving measures. These include productivity improvements and the introduction of energy-efficient grills across its UK and Ireland locations to reduce energy costs.
Rob Papps, Nando's Group Chief Executive, commented: "The 2025 financial year saw Nando's continue to deliver a strong sales performance driven by robust consumer demand for our flame-grilled peri-peri chicken supported by our strong brand and customer proposition."
Despite acknowledging that "the macro-economic outlook for the financial year ending February 2026 remains uncertain," Papps expressed confidence in the company's growth potential. He confirmed continued investment in menu innovation, digital capabilities, and additional restaurant openings across all markets, including the 14 planned UK locations.
