All the American fast food chains launching in UK to rival McDonald’s this April – and how to nab a free burger
MORE and more US fast food chains are crossing the Atlantic to set up shop in the UK.
And while one new restaurant has joined the mix, others are expanding their British fleets.
Known for it’s premium-quality char-broiled burgers, West Coast favourite Carl’s Jr. is coming to the UK.
After 80 years in business, the California-based burger empire are landing on English soil.
Carl’s Jr. announced in May 2024 that it would be launching its UK division under the stewardship of Boparan Restaurant Group (BRG)
And Cardiff will soon be home to the chain’s flagship location, opening on April 3.
The new restaurant will be located inside St David’s Dewi Sant – the city’s largest shopping centre, seating up to 70 customers.
Carl’s Jr. isn’t the only American fast food outlet set for an April grand opening.
Slim Chickens
With nearly 60 locations already in the UK, Slim Chickens is set to open a new restaurant in Bromley next month.
Originally from Arkansas, the brand prides itself on bringing “southern hospitality” to “fast casual” dining.
At the start of the year, Slim Chickens announced plans to open 16 new branches throughout 2025, with at least one each month.
Bromley will follow Leicester Square and East Midlands in launching a new location, with the restaurant opening its doors on April 25.
Popeyes
The famous Louisiana chicken chain plans to open more than 45 locations in the UK this year.
As of late 2024, the fried chicken restaurant had 50 shops across the UK.
Bristol is set to be the next city to launch the iconic fast food chain, with an early April opening date.
Popeyes have yet to confirm a specific date for the grand opening.
As well as increasing its presence in cities such as Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, and London, the chain also plans to expand into Scotland.
How to save money eating out
THERE are a number of ways that you can save money when eating out. Here's how:
Discount codes – Check sites like Sun Vouchers or VoucherCodes for any discount codes you can use to get money off your order.
Tastecard – This is a members club where you pay to have access to discounts worth up to 50 per cent off at thousands of restaurants. It costs £4.99 a month or £34.99 for the year.
Loyalty schemes – Some restaurants will reward you with discounts or a free meal if you register with their loyalty scheme, such as Nando’s where you can collect a stamp with every visit. Some chains like Pizza Express will send you discounts for special occasions, such as your birthday, if you sign up to their newsletter.
Voucher schemes – Look out for voucher schemes offered by third party firms, such as Meerkat Meals. If you compare and buy a product through CompareTheMarket.com then you’ll be rewarded with access to the discount scheme. You’ll get 2 for 1 meals at certain restaurants through Sunday to Thursday.
Student discounts – If you’re in full-time education or a member of the National Students Union then you may be able to get a discount of up to 15 per cent off the bill. It’s always worth asking before you place your order.
Wingstop
As of early 2025, Wingstop are operating 57 sites across the UK, with plans to continue expanding.
The Texas brand hope to reach 20 new locations this year, with 10 sites already confirmed.
These include dine-in restaurants in Swansea, Newcastle, Lakeside, Streatham, and Cardigan Fields, along with a delivery kitchen in Brighton.
Liverpool ONE is set to house the next Wingstop, with rumours circulating that the restaurant will open its doors as early as April 10.
Free burgers
So whether you’re holding out for one of the above eateries or looking forward to the launch of Carl’s Jr., it’s safe to say 2025 is a year for foodies.
In fact, customers who visit the flagship Carl’s Jr. in Cardiff on launch day will get are in for a real treat.
The chain, which is set ti rival McDonald’s, is giving away 100 free burgers to the first customers.