Member Article

Canadian food franchise launches second UK branch in Leeds

Pita Pit, which has only one other UK outlet in Manchester, currently has 450 stores worldwide in 11 locations with plans to expand significantly in the UK with their second branch in the Merrion Centre, Leeds.

The franchise for the new 1400 sq ft outlet has been taken by Shish and Smila Patel, both of whom are experienced franchisees. The two are already looking for additional locations in Leeds, with a plan to open another 10 Pita Pits over the next five years.

The Merrion Centre outlet is in a key position in the city centre, which resulted in a contract race for the premises. Although they started from behind in the negotiations, their adviser, Lupton Fawcett Denison Till, was able to agree the terms with the landlord and enter into the formal lease with a fast turnaround, thereby securing the site.

Speaking about Pita Pit, Shish Patel, said: “Pita Pit is a great new concept for the UK market and I am confident it will be a huge success. It was founded in Canada in 1995 and is on course to have 500 outlets this year.

“Pita Pit specialises in healthy pitta bread sandwiches and salads, with low fat sides and ethically sourced coffee and healthy drink options. With healthy eating high on the agenda you can understand its rapid expansion.”

Director of Commercial Property at Lupton Fawcett Denison Till, James Dale, who advised on the deal, believes it has all the ingredients for a successful venture.

“I have worked with both Shish and Smila for more than ten years completing several other franchise outlets within the retail sector. They have built all of them into very profitable ventures and I believe this new concept, combined with their skills and expertise, will lead to Pita Pit quickly becoming a well know brand in the city.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .