The 2,688 sq ft site will bring the business up to a total of 16 locations joining seven sites in and around the capital and nine regional sites.
Founded in 2018 in Walsall by Midlands-based entrepreneur Omair Ali the business – which has expanded mainly by way of a franchise model – serves an African-inspired menu that includes mutton and potato curry, jambalaya and grilled chicken in jerk sauce.
According to the group’s website, Afrikana sites will soon launch in Hounslow, Leeds, Sheffield, Southampton, Edinburgh and Wolverhampton.
The group offers four different franchise models: Afrikana Kiosk, Lil’ Afrikana, Afrikana, and Afrikana XL. It’s current UK estate primarily consists of classic Afrikana restaurants, but also includes a handful of Lil’ Afrikana and Afrikana Kiosk sites.
Ali is managing director of the group’s parent company, City Restaurants Group, whose portfolio also encompasses bubble tea brand Mowchi; and French taco concept Tacosmash, which launched its first London restaurant in Mile End earlier this month.
“Afrikana is an excellent addition to LDO’s F&B line-up, and we expect it to become a popular eatery amongst our customer base thanks to its excellent choice of dishes alongside an exciting dining experience inspired by art and music,” says Matt Slade, retail director at Quintain, the development and asset management company behind London Designer Outlet.
“It has been great to work with Afrikana’s team on this letting, especially given the franchisee’s previous investment with the wider Wembley Park estate.”
