Zambrero to open 36 London restaurants with new leadership team

Zambrero, the modern Mexican quick-service restaurant chain, has named three development agents to speed up its expansion in Greater London. The company will open 36 new locations in the capital within the next three years, generating approximately 540 jobs. Charles Stewart, Chris Seymour, and Matt King will lead efforts to recruit franchise partners and secure sites in busy areas such as Victoria, Southbank, Westminster, and Paddington. Later plans include expanding into additional London boroughs. Zambrero’s flexible restaurant design suits high streets, retail parks, business districts, and leisure destinations.

Experienced leaders drive Zambrero’s London push

Stewart, Seymour, and King bring over 45 years of combined experience in franchising, operations, and business development. Stewart previously managed operations for a major UK quick-service brand, overseeing expansion across Greater London. Seymour has opened 26 restaurants in London and surrounding areas, while King transitioned from agriculture to franchise ownership in 2023, growing his portfolio to five stores. Their appointments align with Zambrero’s goal of opening 100 sites nationwide by 2030, primarily through franchise partnerships. Currently, the brand operates 17 locations in the UK, including Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow.

The company’s growth strategy centers on both market presence and its brand values. At its core is the Plate 4 Plate initiative, which donates a meal to someone in need for every burrito or bowl sold. This program has already distributed over 110 million meals worldwide, a commitment that appeals to franchise partners and customers. Stewart emphasized the brand’s dual appeal, stating that its clear sense of purpose and growth potential in the UK market made this opportunity attractive. The combination of fresh, customizable food and a humanitarian mission sets Zambrero apart in the quick-service sector.

CEO Emily Teh described the appointments as a strategic move, stating that Greater London represents a major growth opportunity and that their track record in development and operations makes them ideal to lead expansion.

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The trio’s responsibilities include recruiting franchise partners and providing hands-on support. Stewart’s 16 years in Greater London’s development office will help identify high-potential sites. Seymour, who sourced 80% of his current 17-store portfolio, will leverage his network to secure prime locations in areas like the City of London and retail parks. King’s agricultural background informs his operational efficiency, assisting in streamlining restaurant setups to meet Zambrero’s flexible model. Operational consistency remains a priority, with the team ensuring new locations meet brand standards from kitchen layouts to customer service training.

Menu innovation fuels UK market appeal

Zambrero’s menu, featuring fresh ingredients and customizable options, plays a key role in its expansion. The brand’s modern Mexican offerings include burritos, bowls, tacos, nachos, and quesadillas, with dedicated vegetarian, vegan, and Halal choices. This flexibility appeals to London’s multicultural population, where dietary preferences vary widely. The emphasis on freshness—highlighted by specially crafted marinades and flavor-packed sauces—distinguishes Zambrero from competitors relying on frozen or pre-prepared components.

Zambrero’s success in the UK mirrors its global growth, now operating over 350 restaurants across Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA. In Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, it holds the title of largest Mexican franchise. This international footprint informs its UK strategy, where Teh’s leadership aligns with the brand’s proven franchise model. The development team will replicate this approach, focusing on high-traffic zones while adapting to London’s diverse market conditions.