The fast-growing chicken brand has signed a master franchise agreement with PizzaExpress, paving the way for a major UK rollout beginning in 2026.
- Houston TX Hot Chicken (HHC) expands to UK with PizzaExpress.
- Three locations by 2026; plans for 50 total in three years.
- Signature sandwich reaches 2 million Scoville; waiver required.
Houston TX Hot Chicken is preparing to enter the United Kingdom through a master franchise agreement with PizzaExpress, marking the fast-casual brand’s first international expansion. The partnership will introduce the Texas-based chicken concept to British consumers beginning in 2026, with plans to open three locations initially and expand to 50 restaurants within three years.
The agreement combines Houston TX Hot Chicken’s growing popularity in the United States with PizzaExpress’s extensive operational experience across the UK and Ireland. With nearly 500 locations throughout the region, PizzaExpress brings established market knowledge and infrastructure that could accelerate the brand’s entry into a highly competitive quick-service restaurant landscape.
Brian Simowitz, president of Houston TX Hot Chicken, described the partnership as a natural fit. He said the company’s expertise in hot chicken, paired with PizzaExpress’s understanding of local consumer preferences, creates a strong foundation for growth. The menu will introduce British customers to the brand’s signature offerings, including its famously spicy sandwiches and chicken meals that have helped build a loyal following across the United States.
PizzaExpress Group CEO Paula MacKenzie said the company is excited to bring a distinctive new dining experience to UK consumers. The move reflects PizzaExpress’s broader strategy of leveraging its operational capabilities to support complementary restaurant concepts with strong growth potential.
International expansion often presents challenges related to training, operational consistency, and market adaptation. For franchise brands entering new territories, centralized knowledge management becomes increasingly important. Solutions such as Gorilla Dash’s Knowledge Base provide a structured environment for documenting operational standards, onboarding materials, and territory-specific guidance, helping franchise teams maintain consistency as networks expand across borders.
Houston TX Hot Chicken’s UK launch represents another milestone in the brand’s rapid growth trajectory. Supported by PizzaExpress and backed by the investment expertise of Savory Fund, the company is positioning itself to introduce its bold flavor profile to a new audience while building the operational framework necessary for long-term international success.
Key Facts:
| UK Expansion | Houston TX Hot Chicken will open three UK locations in 2026, expanding to fifty within three years. |
|---|---|
| Master Franchise | HHC partners with PizzaExpress, leveraging its operational expertise and extensive network in the UK. |
| Signature Offering | The 'Houston, We Have a Problem!' sandwich is a 2 million Scoville unit sensation. |
| Brand Recognition | HHC boasts a strong social media following and rapid US growth, with 100+ franchises sold. |
| Investment Partner | Savory Fund supports HHC's expansion, known for backing high-potential restaurant brands. |
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