UK hospitality company Azzurri Group has secured exclusive development rights to expand the fast-casual restaurant chain Dave’s Hot Chicken across Europe.
The agreement outlines plans for Azzurri Group to develop 180 new Dave’s Hot Chicken locations in nine European countries: the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Spain, and also in Turkey.
The expansion strategy will be executed through a joint venture (JV) partnership model, which will involve collaboration with local operators in each target market.
The move follows Dave’s Hot Chicken’s UK debut with its first restaurant on Shaftesbury Avenue in London’s West End in late 2024.
Dave’s Hot Chicken CEO Bill Phelps stated: “This agreement represents a major milestone in our global development strategy.
“Azzurri has proven itself as a best-in-class operator with deep expertise in brand building and market execution. Their commitment to working alongside local partners gives us the scale, agility and cultural insight needed to expand in new territories.”
Following the London launch, the chain has also opened restaurants in Birmingham and Manchester, further establishing its presence in the UK.
Azzurri Group, which manages a portfolio including Zizzi, ASK Italian, Coco di Mama and Boojum, will leverage its expertise in operating more than 225 restaurants and stores to grow the Dave’s Hot Chicken brand in Europe.
Azzurri Group CEO Steve Holmes stated: “Dave’s Hot Chicken has all the ingredients for international success — unforgettable food, massive cultural resonance and an incredibly scaleable model.
“The response in the UK has been phenomenal, and we’re now focused on bringing this concept to more countries through strong local joint venture partnerships.”
Dave’s Hot Chicken, known for its Nashville-style hot chicken tenders, bites and sliders with varying spice levels, also offers a range of sides such as Mac & Cheese, Kale Slaw and seasoned fries.
In June 2025, the brand was acquired by Roark Capital, a US-based private equity firm, for $1bn.
“Azzurri Group gains rights to expand Dave’s Hot Chicken in Europe” was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand.
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