UK noodle bar market leader Wok&Go is to open its first franchise site in London. Earlier this year, the company announced it will double the number of existing UK stores (currently 20) in 2016 and it would expand its international footprint with a further opening in Dubai.

Founder Des Pheby comments: “We started out in the North and gradually working our way down South. We have further London sites in the pipeline for this year, as well as multiple franchise openings in Kent and Essex but also Manchester and Scotland. There is a huge demand for our franchise.”

The Finchley Road store will feature a variety of noodle and rice dishes and offer eat-in, takeaway and delivery options. The store will feature its trademark “wok theatre” with dishes made to order in an open-plan kitchen.

Des Pheby adds: “We will be supporting our local franchisee with launch marketing, training, and operational support. A dedicated area manager will be visiting the business regularly to ensure the franchisee is off to a smooth and profitable start.”

Business developer Seeds Consulting is responsible for Wok&Go national and international franchise recruitment, and it has masterminded the Wok&Go move to London and the South.

Director Matteo Frigeri comments: “Wok&Go strength lies in the quality of the food. Old style noodle bars still feature pre-made noodle dishes sitting in hot cabinets. Wok&Go dishes are all made to order and the added value is the show around the wok station.”

Matteo concludes: “Wok&Go is a professional franchise organisation in that not only knows how to run its own stores, but also is totally focused on supporting franchisees and getting them the best deal. This starts with the franchise store project, which provided as a turnkey solution”.