Hotcha, a Chinese takeaway chain with nine company-owned units centred around Bristol, is franchising the concept and hopes to open an average of a store a month.
James Liang founded Hotcha two years ago with the aim of creating Britain’s first national chain of Chinese takeaways.
He plans to recruit experienced franchisees with a strong knowledge of their local markets, successful track-records, and the ambition to become multi-unit owners.
His target areas are urban centres with similar demographics to Bristol, such as Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leeds, London, Manchester, Nottingham, Oxford and Southampton.
Hotcha offers a simple menu of well-known traditional Chinese dishes and trains its own chefs at a special academy, rather than employing experienced cookery staff.
Core ingredients, including meat, fish, marinades and sauces, are freshly prepared centrally at Bristol and distributed weekly.
“Knowledge of Chinese cuisine is not a prerequisite,” explains Liang. “We have developed efficient processes and a training programme that ensures our meals can be cooked quickly and to a high standard.”
Andrew Emmerson, who has held a number of senior roles with successful franchised catering chains, has been appointed a non-executive director to advise on overall business strategy.
His previous jobs have included that of business development director of Domino’s Pizza, where he oversaw the sourcing and opening of over 50 stores annually; managing director of Millie’s Cookies; and international brand director of Upper Crest. His earlier career included a spell in the U.S. as a senior executive with Dunkin’ Donuts.
“Andrew’s knowledge and experience of the franchising model will be invaluable as we create the UK’s first Chinese takeaway brand,” says Liang, whose ultimate ambition is to float the company.
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