British chain Harry Ramsden’s enters Romania with first restaurant opening in Bucharest

The international chain Harry Ramsden’s, one of the most well-known British fish & chips brands, is entering the Romanian market by opening its first location in Bucharest. The restaurant is inaugurated on March 26 at ParkLake Shopping Center, according to information published by Economedia.

First location and expansion plans

The brand’s entry into the local market is made through a partnership with Horecagroup SRL, which has already announced development plans. The strategy includes opening a second location in the capital in 2026, followed by expansion into major shopping centers and later nationwide.

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According to the announced plan:
In 2026, the first restaurant will be launched, followed by the opening of a second unit within the same year.
In 2027, expansion will continue at an accelerated pace in Bucharest’s main shopping centers.
In 2028, the brand aims to enter Romania’s largest cities and strengthen its presence at a national level.

Statements from officials

James Fleming, CEO of the group, stated that Romania represents a natural step in the brand’s expansion:
“Bucharest is a city with a real appetite for authentic culinary experiences. This is not just about opening a restaurant, but about sharing nearly a century of British culinary tradition.”

In turn, Iulian Bolnavu highlighted the potential of the local market:
“Fish and chips is not just a dish in the UK, but an experience. We believe Romanian consumers will appreciate the quality and tradition behind this brand.”

He also emphasized the personal motivation behind this entrepreneurial initiative, mentioning his transition from a banking career back to entrepreneurship in HoReCa, as well as the choice of a well-established concept with nearly 100 years of history.

Romania, a strategic market for the region

The company considers Romania a key market for Central and Eastern Europe, given the limited competition in the premium fish & chips segment and the growing demand from both consumers and commercial space developers.

At a later stage, the partnership between Harry Ramsden’s and Horecagroup SRL also aims to expand into retail, with products expected to become available in hypermarkets.

Sursa foto: Profit.ro