Hot chicken chain with dishes so spicy they require a waiver plans major UK expansion

Dave's Hot Chicken, a fast food chain that has grown to 199 sites across the US since its inception in 2017, is set to expand into the UK. The brand, which was started by three childhood friends - Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan and Tommy Rubenyan - in an East Hollywood car park, has gained a massive social media following with 2.4 million followers on TikTok and 1.2 million on Instagram.

The trio are now set to take their business to new heights as they venture into the UK market. Azzurri Group, the operator of Zizzi, ASK Italian, Coco di Mama and Irish fast-casual Mexican brand Boojum, has inked a deal with Dave's Hot Chicken to open 60 sites across the UK.

The first outlet is slated to open in London early next year, offering chicken enthusiasts the opportunity to sample their signature spiced-to-order chicken.

Dave's Hot Chicken has become renowned for its unique business approach, offering seven levels of spice ranging from No Spice to Reaper, the latter requiring guests to sign a waiver, reports the Mirror.

Another key aspect of Dave's Hot Chicken's strategy is its emphasis on quality ingredients and authenticity. They source their chicken from local farms and use a secret blend of spices to create their signature hot chicken.

In 2019, the company began franchising the brand following a deal with Wetzel's Pretzels co-founder and former chief executive, Bill Phelps, and investment from celebrities including Drake, Samuel L. Jackson and Usher.

The Caterer reports that the company has already sold rights to over 700 franchise locations in the US, Middle East and Canada, with plans to open more than 90 new spots this year.

Steve Holmes, CEO of Azzurri Group, expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying: "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, believes that the brand has the potential to become "one of the iconic restaurant brands". He said this can be achieved by partnering with 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", added Bill.

Currently, Azzurri employs nearly 6,000 people and serves over 15 million meals annually across its 230 restaurants and stores.