Mexi Bean Express, the Yorkshire-based Mexican fast food concept founded by Danielle Best, has officially launched its franchise program through a strategic partnership with Platinum Wave Franchising. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the company, which began operations in 2020 and has established five successful locations across West Yorkshire over the past five years.
Danielle Best, who founded the original Mexi Bean restaurant following travels to Mexico, developed the concept around authentic Mexican flavors adapted for British consumers. The entrepreneur launched the initial sit-down restaurant in 2020, followed by the express takeaway format in 2021, and expanded to include a food truck operation in 2023. The brand's evolution reflects Best's strategic approach to market testing and format development before pursuing franchise expansion.
The franchise launch through Platinum Wave Franchising represents the natural progression of a brand that has demonstrated consistent growth and market appeal throughout West Yorkshire. Current Mexi Bean Express locations operate in Huddersfield, Halifax, Brighouse, Sowerby Bridge, and Leeds, with a recent addition in Bradford at Darley Street Market. This geographical concentration has allowed the company to refine its operational systems and build brand recognition within the region before expanding nationally.
Platinum Wave Franchising specializes in transforming independent businesses into national franchise brands, providing comprehensive support services that include franchisee recruitment, training programs, and ongoing operational assistance. The partnership enables Mexi Bean Express to leverage established franchise development expertise while maintaining focus on food quality and customer service standards that have driven its regional success.
The Mexi Bean Express concept emphasizes fresh, halal Mexican food served in a quick-service format, catering to diverse dietary requirements including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. This inclusive approach to menu development has contributed to the brand's appeal across Yorkshire's diverse demographic, positioning it well for national expansion into markets with similar characteristics.
Best's recognition within the hospitality industry underscores the brand's credibility and growth potential. Her recent awards include the 2025 Hospitality Leader Award, the 2024 Made in Yorkshire Manufacturing Company of the Year recognition, and the 2024 Emerging Hospitality Leader Award. These accolades reflect both personal achievement and the company's successful execution of its business model during a challenging period for the restaurant industry.
The franchise program offers both single-unit and multi-unit development opportunities, providing flexibility for prospective franchisees with varying investment capabilities and market ambitions. This approach enables the brand to attract different types of operators while maintaining quality control through Platinum Wave's established recruitment and training processes. The timing of the franchise launch capitalizes on renewed confidence in the quick-service restaurant sector following the post-pandemic recovery.
Market conditions for Mexican food concepts remain favorable, with consumers continuing to seek authentic, fresh alternatives to traditional fast food offerings. The halal certification and dietary inclusivity features position Mexi Bean Express to compete effectively in diverse urban markets across the United Kingdom. The brand's proven track record in Yorkshire provides a strong foundation for replicating success in similar markets throughout Britain.
