Slim Chickens to Open First UK Drive-Through, Plans dozens more

Boparan Restaurant Group, which holds the master franchise for Slim Chickens across the UK and Europe, will debut the brand’s first drive-through restaurant at Broughton Shopping Park in north Wales on October 6. The site is intended to serve as a model for a rapid expansion, with Rich Pigott stating plans for 15 to 20 additional locations next year, the majority featuring drive-through formats and employing up to 50 staff each, potentially adding 800-1,000 jobs nationwide.

After eight new openings in 2026, the chain now operates more than 80 UK venues, spanning high streets, shopping centres and, increasingly, retail parks. The drive-through concept mirrors Slim Chickens’ US model, where such formats dominate. Tom Patrick added that the launch will incorporate a new mobile app and AI tools to make the drive-through service as seamless as in-store ordering. Boparan also intends to grow its presence in Europe through company-owned sites and franchise partnerships, alongside its other brands such as Carluccio’s, Giraffe and Gourmet Burger Kitchen.