What Franchise - Issue 21.2

7 LEMON AND LIME INTERIORS: UK FIRST Award-winning home staging firm Lemon and Lime Interiors has launched a first-of-its-kind franchise network, giving entrepreneurs the chance to run their own property staging business under the well-established brand. The Derbyshire-based company has already signed franchisees in Canterbury, Cardiff and Exeter, each gaining exclusive access to its proven system. Founder Elaine Penhaul said the model offers both practical tools and a collaborative community, helping franchisees grow profitable businesses while elevating home staging as an essential service for UK estate agents. 5WENDY’S: LANDMARK EXPANSION International fast food franchiseWendy’s has opened a new restaurant in Plymouth’s Drake Circus, calling it a “landmark” in its regional expansion. Operated by franchise partner Khidmat Ltd, the site is part ofWendy’s plans to add 150+ UK and European outlets by 2028. In addition, new restaurants slated for Blackpool, Glasgow, Grays,Watford and York will create over 150 jobs. Meanwhile,Wendy’s has invested $70M in its Build-To-Suit program to support franchisees, speed up openings and deliver faster returns across the UK and internationally. 6 ZAMBRERO: INVESTING IN NORTHERN CITIES Mexican QSR brand Zambrero UK has appointed its first Development Agents, Damian Bennett and Dawn Catherall, to spearhead growth in Greater Manchester andWestYorkshire. The move follows the launch of Zambrero’s franchise recruitment drive and its goal of opening 100 UK restaurants by 2030. Both bring over 20 years of franchising expertise, having successfully grown major QSR networks in the region. Their focus will be on recruiting ambitious franchise partners, securing prime sites and driving rapid, sustainable expansion of the brand’s fresh, socially-driven dining concept. 8 CONCEPT CLAIMS SOLUTIONS: DOUBLE AWARDWIN Concept Claim Solutions, the UK’s longest established insurance claim franchise, has secured a double victory at the 2025 British Claims and Modern Claims Awards. With over 40 franchise partners nationwide, the brand’s proven model helps property owners manage insurance claims — at no cost to them— while generating high six-figure earnings for franchisees. This recognition highlights a resilient, in-demand opportunity for ambitious entrepreneurs seeking a professional, home-based business in a £3 billion market. 9MEXI BEAN EXPRESS: FRANCHISE ON THE MOVE Mexi Bean Express has opened its first transport hub site at WakefieldWestgate Station, unveiling a new quick-service “grab-and- go” model designed for franchise rollout. TheYorkshire-born brand, known for its fresh, halal Mexican street food, now offers commuters tacos, burritos and nachos from 12–10 daily. Founder Danielle Best called it “a quick pit-stop with all the flavour,” as she also celebrates being named a finalist in the SME National Business Awards 2025, capping a landmark year for the fast-growing franchise. We’ve handpicked some of the UK’s best franchise investment opportunities. Go to what- franchise.com for more information 71 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM Opportuni t ies