Mexican restaurant chain eyes South West expansion including Exeter

A Mexican restaurant chain is looking to expand into the South West of England, with Exeter among the areas being targeted for new sites.

Zambrero, which describes itself as a "modern Mexican" brand, has appointed a team of three development agents whose first task is to recruit franchise partners across the region.

The company says it wants at least nine new restaurants open within three years, but none have yet been confirmed.

Exeter is among the initial target locations, alongside Bath, Bournemouth, Bristol, Plymouth, Poole, Taunton and Weston-super-Mare.

James Fleck, Michelle Jelfs and Sarah Preston, who together claim more than 50 years of franchising experience, will lead the recruitment drive, focusing on high footfall locations such as high streets, shopping centres and retail parks. Around 135 jobs could be created if the targets are met.

Zambrero currently operates 14 UK restaurants, in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Reading, Essex and Glasgow, since launching in Britain in 2021. The company says it wants 100 UK restaurants by 2030.

The chain, which is headquartered in Australia and has more than 350 restaurants across five countries, says each burrito or bowl sold triggers a meal donation to someone in the developing world through its charity partner Rise Against Hunger.