Bolton is about to get its first branch of hit burger chain Five Guys. The new unit is being fitted out now at the Middlebrook retail park.
Signs on the front of the building, between TGI Fridays and Poundland, also say that the restaurant is ‘now hiring’. It’s due to open its doors next month.
It will join a host of other Five Guys branches across Greater Manchester, the first landing at the Trafford Centre back in 2014. It’s since been joined by outlets on Piccadilly Gardens, the Arndale, University Green, Parr’s Wood, Trafford Retail Park and Ashton.
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The chain first landed in the UK in 2013, with its first outlet outside the US on Long Acre in Covent Garden. It’s since expanded rapidly, now operating 163 restaurants across the UK.
The chain was set up by the Murrell family in 1986 in Arlington, Virginia, with parents Jerry and Janie Murrell setting their five sons up in business with a single burger restaurant. Their customisable burgers and hand-cut, skin-on fries have since become a hit around the world, with over 1,700 outlets.
It’s now a franchise, backed in the UK by Sir Charles Dunstone, founder of Carphone Warehouse. It launched its first drive-thru restaurants in 2021.
On the announcement of its application to move into the unit, Cllr David Grant said: “Supporting local businesses amidst the arrival of Five Guys Restaurant at Middlebrook Retail Park, Horwich I am a steadfast advocate for the prosperity and growth of our local community and welcome the news of Five Guys restaurant's opening at Middlebrook Retail Park.
"However, I also urge everyone to acknowledge the challenges faced by our small independent businesses on the high street. Middlebrook Retail Park has long been a hub of commercial activity, attracting visitors from near and far.
“The arrival of Five Guys, renowned for its delicious burgers and fries, undoubtedly adds to the vibrancy and variety of dining options available to our residents and visitors. It is a testament to the appeal and economic potential of our area, and I extend a warm welcome to Five Guys and with their sustainable and ethical ethos.”
