QSRP and Chopstix announce strategic investment partnership to expand mutual presence in the UK and European QSR markets

QSRP has announced its strategic investment in Chopstix, acquiring a majority stake in the UK’s premier Asian-inspired QSR chain. The partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies, to accelerate growth and innovation for both QSRP and Chopstix across the UK and Europe.

Founded in 2002, Chopstix has rapidly expanded to become one of the UK’s most recognised Asian QSR brands, known for its delicious, fast, and fresh pan-Asian cuisine. With over 150 locations across the UK and Ireland, Chopstix offers a unique and vibrant food experience that combines high-quality ingredients with a quick-service format, catering to the increasing demand for convenient and healthy dining options.

Since its inception in 2014, QSRP has experienced accelerated growth, now operating in seven main countries with a diverse portfolio of over 1,240 restaurants, including 144 virtual kitchens. This investment in Chopstix aligns with QSRP’s strategy to enlarge and diversify its brand portfolio into key growing QSR segments, and to strengthen its foothold in the dynamic UK market.

Partnership for Growth

The collaboration between QSRP and Chopstix is poised to unlock significant value, leveraging QSRP’s extensive industry expertise, operational capabilities, and strategic resources to support Chopstix in its next phase of growth. The investment will enable Chopstix to accelerate its expansion plans, enhance its digital and delivery capabilities, and introduce new menu innovations to meet the evolving tastes of its customers.

“Chopstix has demonstrated exceptional growth and a strong consumer following in the UK market,” said Alessandro Preda, Group CEO, QSRP. “This investment is a testament to our confidence in Chopstix’s potential to become a leading QSR player across Europe. Together, we will work to elevate the Chopstix brand and bring its delicious and convenient offerings to a wider audience. This agreement also marks the entrance of QSRP into the dynamic UK market, extends our brand portfolio into the pan-Asian and healthier-for-you cuisine segment, and strengthens QSRP’s position as a leading player in the European quick service industry broadening our proposition of burger, Original French Tacos, seafood, and coffee and bakery. Since the first discussions with Menashe and Sam, we understood we share the same passion and values.”

Commenting on the partnership, Menashe Sadik, Co-Founder of Chopstix, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with QSRP, a partner that shares our vision and commitment to delivering high-quality food experiences, underpinned by operational excellence. This partnership will enable us to scale our business and to drive the Chopstix experience to new markets in Europe. We look forward to partnering with the team at QSRP and delivering long-term growth and success for both our businesses.”

Looking Ahead

With this strategic investment, QSRP and Chopstix are poised to capitalise on the growing demand for Asian cuisine and quick-service dining experiences across Europe. The partnership will focus on expanding the Chopstix footprint, enhancing operational efficiencies, and delivering a superior customer experience, setting the stage for continued success in the QSR sector.

Sam Elia, Co-Founder of Chopstix, added: “We are delighted to announce this partnership with QSRP, which propels us into a new phase of growth and opportunity and will cement our position as Europe’s largest Asian-led QSR brand.  When we started Chopstix 20 years ago, it was with one store, and with family values at its heart. It’s how we have always run the business, and we look forward to driving that ethos further as we launch Chopstix in new markets, across Europe.”   

Jefferies International acted as sole financial advisor to Chopstix Group. KPMG LLP provided vendor assist services to the Co-Founders, with Fladgate LLP serving as legal advisor to the company. Ernst & Young served as due diligence advisor to QSRP with Jones Day providing legal advice.