American Seafood Chain Captain D’s Eyes UK Expansion with 20-Unit Deal
Posted by Emma on 17th Mar 2025 Reading Time:
US seafood restaurant brand Captain D’s is set to make its UK debut this summer, marking a significant step in its international growth strategy. The fast-casual chain has signed a master franchise agreement with CD’s Holdings, paving the way for a 20-unit rollout across the UK.
The first UK site is scheduled to open in Kent this August, with additional locations in Sussex and Hampshire to follow soon after. This expansion signals the brand’s intent to tap into the UK’s well-established appetite for seafood, particularly in the competitive fish and chip market.
Founded in 1969, Captain D’s boasts a strong presence across the United States, with more than 530 restaurants in 23 states. Now, with the backing of experienced UK-based franchise operators, the brand aims to introduce its distinctive offering to British diners.
A Bold Entry into the UK Seafood Market
Hair Parra, Senior Vice President of International Operations and Development at Captain D’s, expressed enthusiasm about the UK launch:
“This is an exciting time in the growth of our brand. Our master franchisees are committed to making a sustainable impact in the UK, and we are committed to working alongside them and offering new opportunities to other entrepreneurs as we expand into new international markets.”
The menu at Captain D’s is built around battered fish, a staple that has won the chain widespread popularity in the US. Alongside traditional fried seafood, the brand also offers grilled options, including shrimp, tilapia, and salmon—potentially appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to traditional British fish and chips.
The Entrepreneurs Bringing Captain D’s to Britain
The UK expansion is spearheaded by CD’s Holdings, a company led by seasoned entrepreneurs with extensive experience in hospitality, security, and accountancy. The group actively seeks multi-unit franchise partners to support further growth across the UK.
Naveed Chattha, Operations Director at CD’s Holdings, believes Captain D’s brings a fresh approach to the UK’s seafood sector:
“We have been looking for the right brand to introduce to the UK market, which is exciting and healthy. There is a large fish and chips market in the UK, but no one has tried to apply discipline, standards, and quality to this level. With our experience, we feel Captain D’s is the right choice.”
With the first restaurant set to open in just a few months, all eyes will be on Captain D’s to see whether the brand can carve out a niche in the UK’s highly competitive fish and chip sector. Can an American seafood chain successfully challenge Britain’s most iconic takeaway?