In Britain, fried chicken is booming, with restaurants spanning every range. From established chains to fresh brands, this article rounds up some of the most popular chicken shops in the UK. Detailing what they have to offer and what’s new.
Wingstop UK
Wingstop was founded in Texas and made its UK debut in 2018. Where it has opened 57 sites and has grown to be the fastest-growing restaurant brand in the UK. Renowned for its flavorful wings and occur, Wingstop has pulled in a youthful, culture-sensible clientele. The UK franchise was also bought in December, by American private equity firm Sixth Street. For more than £400 million with plans for the company to grow to 200 sites in five years. Wingstop is now a prominent player among UK chicken shops.
Morley’s
Founded in South London in 1985, Morley’s has become a cornerstone for the youth culture. Morley’s, which has over 90 branches, all but a handful in London. Is well known for its crispy fried chicken and low prices. Its deep-rooted place within the local communities they’ve opened its doors have cemented their place as a beloved chicken shop.
Slim Chickens
Slim Chickens was founded in Arkansas, USA and serves chicken tenders, wings and sandwiches. The chain, which opened its first UK location in London in 2018, has since grown to more than 50 branches here. Its focus on fresh, made-to-order meals has earned it a dedicated following among chicken shops enthusiasts.
Dixy Chicken
Dixy Chicken is a British halal chicken fast-food chain, established in 1986. Based in the UK and operating more than 110 outlets at home and abroad, Dixy Chicken serves a range of fried and grilled chicken products for a varied clientele using halal ingredients. This chicken shop is known for its halal offerings.
Southern Fried Chicken
Southern Fried Chicken is a British-based fast-food franchising company headquartered in Reading, England, founded in the 1970s. As a franchise network, KFC operates in the UK and around the world serving fried chicken, hamburgers and spare ribs, with stores in many countries. This is another noteworthy chicken shop in Britain.
Recent Trends in the British Chicken Scene
There have been some significant developments in the UK chicken shop landscape:
: Sixth Street’s purchase of Wingstop UK highlights a growing interest from private equity in the UK’s fast-casual dining market, with similar acquisitions involving Popeyes UK and Wagamama.
Consumer demographics: Emerging evidence suggests that more and more affluent consumers are visiting chicken shops, with the proportion of visits in the top income quintile increasing from 40% in 2018 to 45% in 2019. This trend indicates that chicken shops, previously stereotyped as low-income establishments, have started to appeal to a wider range of social classes.
Cultural Significance: Fried chicken joints have taken root on British high streets and the likes of Morley’s have become integral parts of local communities and popular youth culture. Fried chicken has enjoyed immense popularity for the combination of its affordable nature and never-fail accessibility. Chicken shops are now a staple on British high streets.
