German Doner Kebab has appointed Daniel Bunce as its new global chief operating officer, to drive the brand’s global expansion plans.
Bunce was promoted from his current position as managing director for UK and Europe.
He joined in 2018 and has helped expand the business to become one of the fastest growing restaurant chains in the UK, working on franchise development, sales growth and developing customer loyalty.
His promotion follows a busy 2021, with German Doner Kebab opening 39 new restaurants throughout the UK - with plans to open a further 78 restaurants this year.
The past year also saw the Glasgow-based company deliver a significant rise in UK total sales, up 75% from the previous 12 months, with same-store sales also up 27% on 2020.
It employs more than 3,500 people in its restaurants throughout the country, and boasts a development pipeline of 350 franchise units over the next seven years.
German Doner Kebab is planning to open 11 new restaurants in North America, and also to bring the brand to Saudi Arabia. The Ajlan Bin Ajlan Group has been signed-up as the master-franchisee in Saudi Arabia, with a development agreement of 100 restaurants over the next five years.
Further growth is also set to be announced for Ireland and Spain in Europe.
Bunce said: “I am excited to be moving into the role of global COO and continue growing and developing us into an international, game-changing brand of the future,
“2021 was a monumental year, particularly with our UK restaurants, but I am looking forward to our exciting expansion plans as we look to grow across key regions in America, Canada and the Middle East, bringing a fresh and exciting alternative to the Gen Z and Millennial audience.”
Imran Sayeed, group chief executive, said: “Daniel has been a key figure in establishing German Doner Kebab as one the fastest growing fast-casual brands in the UK.
“His experience has been invaluable and has helped us develop strong franchise relationships in strategic global locations.”
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