Zambrero Appoints Development Agents for South West Expansion

Zambrero Eyes Cornwall Expansion With 9 New Restaurants Planned

A global Mexican restaurant brand is setting its sights on the South West, with Cornwall among the areas included in a new expansion drive.

Zambrero has appointed three Development Agents to lead its growth across the region, with plans to open at least nine restaurants over the next three years.

Expansion Plans Across the South West

James Fleck, Michelle Jelfs and Sarah Preston have been brought in to spearhead the rollout across Bristol, Dorset, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall.

The trio will focus on recruiting Franchise Partners and securing locations in busy areas such as high streets, shopping centres and retail parks. Early target locations include Bath, Bournemouth, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Poole, Taunton and Weston-super-Mare.

The expansion is expected to create around 135 jobs, including both full-time and part-time roles.

Alongside the South West, the team will also oversee growth in the West Midlands, where at least 12 new restaurants are planned in cities including Birmingham, Coventry and Worcester.

Experienced Team Leading Growth

James Fleck, Michelle Jelfs and Sarah Preston bring more than 50 years of combined franchising experience. They have previously worked together to deliver long-term growth for a major quick-service restaurant brand, recruiting over 100 Franchise Partners and opening more than 120 restaurants.

Their role with Zambrero will cover everything from franchise recruitment and site selection to operational support, marketing and business strategy.

Aiming for 100 UK Restaurants by 2030

The appointments form part of Zambrero’s wider ambition to open 100 restaurants across the UK by 2030 through franchise partnerships.

James Fleck said: “We’re incredibly excited to join the Zam Fam at such a pivotal stage in the brand’s growth. Having worked within the hospitality industry for many years, it is clear to me that Zambrero truly stands out from its fresh, high-quality Mexican food and modern restaurant design, to its positive culture and clear sense of purpose.

“What really inspires us is the Plate 4 Plate initiative, which goes far beyond being a brand differentiator; it’s a mission we feel personally connected to, and we’re proud to be a part of a business that gives back. When we consider all these things, we really think we’ve hit on something special. As we keep telling everyone we speak to, there’s just something about Zambrero.”

📷Zambrero UK Development Agent team for the West Midlands and South West. L-R Michelle Jelfs, Sarah Preston, James Fleck

Giving Back Through Every Meal

At the centre of the brand is its Plate 4 Plate programme. For every burrito or bowl purchased, a meal is donated to someone in need through its partner Rise Against Hunger.

The scheme has already delivered more than 100 million meals worldwide.

James added: “We’re actively seeking passionate, committed and like-minded Franchise Partners to join us in expanding Zambrero across the South West. This is a unique opportunity for both new and experienced Franchise Partners whether that be single-site owners, multi-site owners or corporate partners to join a fast-growing global brand at an early stage. For ambitious entrepreneurs ready to lead the way in the South West, now is the time to join us on this exciting journey.”

Growing Global Presence

Since launching in London in 2021, Zambrero has grown to 14 UK locations, including sites in Manchester, Birmingham, Reading, Essex and Glasgow.

Globally, the brand now operates more than 350 restaurants across Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and the USA, making it the largest Mexican restaurant franchise in both Australia and Ireland.

Zambrero offers a modern take on Mexican food, with burritos and bowls alongside tacos, nachos and quesadillas. Menus include vegetarian, vegan and Halal options.

More details about the brand and its franchise opportunities can be found on the Zambrero UK website: https://www.zambrero.co.uk/

📷Zambrero UK Development Agent team for the West Midlands and South West. L-R Michelle Jelfs, Sarah Preston, James Fleck