According to M&C Report, the Graham Ford-led group expects that the new openings will include its first outside the capital for the three-strong concept.
The group is also confident about the rollout potential of newer format Limeyard and is currently deciding whether the future of Grillshack lies more in high streets or shopping centres before opening further outlets.
Last year the firm opened two Jackson & Rye sites, in Chiswick and Richmond, to add to the original in Soho, and also launched the first Limeyard, in Ealing.
Ford described the newer concept as a more casual, accessible and “high streety” American-style restaurant than Jackson & Rye, which is at the higher end of the casual dining scale – Jackson & Rye's menu features dishes such as truffle mac and cheese, lobster and fillet steak whereas Limeyard’s best sellers tend to be burgers and salads.
He didn’t reveal figures but said daytime sales in particular were “very, very encouraging” at Limeyard, whose blend of exciting décor and quality menu he feels sets it apart from the rest of the casual sector.
Potential
It will be a little while until they are ready to roll it out further, but Ford is confident the brand has that potential.
Grillshack, the firm’s fast casual offer currently only running at one site in Soho, has an average spend around the £11.50 mark.
J&R restaurants tend to have the bar as the focal point with a café section near the front and restaurant at the back with total seating for around 120 people. Details of J&R number four should be available very soon, Ford said.
This article was first published by BigHospitality's sister publication M&C Report. To subscribe email emily.croft@wrbm.com