Chopstix has continued its steady expansion across the UK with the opening of a new restaurant at The Bridges Shopping Centre in Sunderland. Launching just before Christmas, the latest outlet brings the brand’s fast casual Pan Asian menu to one of the city’s busiest retail destinations, reinforcing its focus on high footfall locations and everyday convenience.
The Sunderland opening marks the company’s 21st new location of 2025, capping a year of significant growth for the business. Alongside serving shoppers and local residents, the new site has created 20 jobs, adding to Chopstix’s growing presence as both a food brand and an employer in regional markets.
This expansion follows strategic investment from European quick service restaurant group QSRP in late 2024, which has helped accelerate Chopstix’s development plans. In addition to new openings, the brand has also converted former Yangtze restaurants in Derby and Sheffield into Chopstix locations, strengthening its footprint through both organic growth and rebranding initiatives.
By positioning its restaurants in prominent shopping centres and transport hubs, Chopstix continues to align itself with changing consumer habits that favour quick, affordable dining options. The Sunderland launch reflects a broader confidence in the fast casual sector, as the brand looks ahead to further growth while maintaining its focus on accessible flavours, operational efficiency, and strong local demand.
