Burger & Lobster lines up 'strong pipeline of sites' as it looks to accelerate expansion

The nine-strong, London-based restaurant group says it has a 'strong pipeline of sites in place', with a 10th restaurant in the capital set to be announced at the start of next year.

In its financial results for the year ending 3 January 2021, Burger & Lobster reported that turnover fell by 65% to £16.3m as the Covid-19 pandemic curtailed its operations.

During the pandemic it pivoted to delivery and opened three dark kitchens to increase brand reach, and also launched nationwide DIY kits, which accounted for sales of £650,000.

Despite a challenging year, the group says its week-on-week sales are continuing to increase, and the business is currently well-positioned for expansion.

“We are delighted to be celebrating our 10th anniversary next month, having reopened all our restaurants and experiencing high demand," says founder Misha Zelman.

"It has been an incredibly challenging 18-months for hospitality. Still, we are immensely proud to have retained so many members of our team post furlough and would also like to take this opportunity to thank our landlords for their support during the pandemic."

Ahead of its expansion, Burger & Lobster has appointed a new executive development chef, and a menu development programme has begun with new dishes being introduced next month that 'put the spotlight on premium ingredients and provenance'.

A key focus for the brand going forwards is menu collaborations, beginning this month with the launch of a ‘Sleezey’n’Bisquey' lobster mac and cheese, created by Gizzi Erskine and Professor Green.

As part of the elevated food positioning, a series of chef and food partnerships have been secured for 2022.

“The business has shown resilience and adaptability, giving us the confidence to open more sites both here in the UK and overseas," adds Zelman.

"As we continue to develop and innovate, we are confident that our unique brand proposition will continue to engage with diners.”