Azzurri Group is reportedly exploring the potential sale of its UK and European franchise rights for Dave’s Hot Chicken, less than a year after securing a major development agreement for the fast-growing US brand.
According to people familiar with the matter who spoke to Bloomberg, the private equity-backed hospitality operator is considering selling the rights to the Nashville-style chicken chain later this year.
The British restaurant group operates several well-known casual dining brands, including Zizzi and Coco di Mama, and has been owned by private equity firm TowerBrook Capital Partners since 2020.
European Development Agreement
In September 2025, Azzurri secured exclusive development rights to open 180 Dave’s Hot Chicken restaurants across Europe.
The agreement covers 10 European markets, with the company planning to work with local franchise operators in countries including France, Portugal, Spain, Germany, Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Italy and Turkey.
At the time of the announcement, Azzurri Group chief executive Steve Holmes described Dave’s Hot Chicken as a “once-in-a-generation brand”, adding that the concept alone could support at least 60 restaurants across the UK.
UK Expansion Continues
Despite reports of a potential sale process, the brand’s UK rollout continues.
Dave’s Hot Chicken recently confirmed plans to open three additional regional restaurants in Leicester, Sheffield and Bristol, which will take its UK estate to 10 locations as the business expands beyond London.
The Nashville-style chicken concept made its UK debut in December 2024 on Shaftesbury Avenue, quickly attracting long queues as customers attempted the brand’s widely shared spicy chicken challenge, where diners must sign a waiver before ordering the hottest item on the menu.
A Rapidly Scaling US Franchise Brand
Founded in Los Angeles in 2017 by three childhood friends, Dave’s Hot Chicken has grown rapidly, expanding to more than 200 restaurants across the United States within six years.
The brand has also attracted high-profile backing, including investment from music artist Drake and support from celebrities such as Samuel L. Jackson and Usher.
Last year, the company was acquired by private equity firm Roark Capital, the investment group behind brands including Subway, in a deal reportedly valued at $1 billion.
Both Azzurri Group and Dave’s Hot Chicken have been contacted for comment regarding the reported plans.
