A Strategic Expansion into Central and Eastern Europe
Harry Ramsden’s, one of the world’s most renowned fish & chips brands, has announced its official entry into Romania as part of its broader international growth strategy. The move is supported by an exclusive partnership with Horecagroup SRL, a local company with solid experience in the HoReCa sector.
Romania has been identified as a key growth market due to its increasing demand for premium food service concepts and the relatively limited competition in the high-end fish & chips segment. According to company representatives, both consumer appetite for quality products and the growing interest from shopping center developers make Romania an attractive destination for the brand’s expansion.
Founded in 1928, Harry Ramsden’s has built a global reputation on tradition, consistency, and uncompromising quality, transforming a classic British dish into an international culinary benchmark.
Phased Development Plan
The expansion strategy for Romania is structured in several stages, designed to ensure sustainable growth and strong brand positioning:
- 2026 – Opening of the first Harry Ramsden’s restaurant in Romania in March, followed by a second location later in the same year
- 2027 – Accelerated expansion within major shopping centers in Bucharest
- 2028 – Entry into Romania’s largest cities and nationwide consolidation of the brand
This phased approach reflects the company’s focus on long-term development rather than rapid, short-term scaling.
Local Partnership with a Strong Entrepreneurial Vision
Iulian-Nicușor Bolnavu, principal partner and coordinator of Horecagroup SRL, emphasized the importance of bringing an iconic British brand to the Romanian market.
He highlighted that Harry Ramsden’s nearly 100-year heritage and high operational standards are well aligned with the expectations of Romanian consumers. His decision to partner with the brand followed an extensive evaluation process, driven by both professional experience in banking and a deep-rooted passion for the hospitality industry.
The partnership combines international brand strength with local market expertise, a key factor in successful market entry strategies.
Future Opportunities: From Restaurants to Retail
Beyond restaurant development, the partnership also considers a future expansion into modern retail. At a later stage, Harry Ramsden’s products are expected to become available in hypermarkets, allowing consumers to enjoy authentic British fish & chips at home.
This multi-channel approach reflects a broader trend in the food service industry, where strong brands extend beyond physical locations into retail distribution.
About Harry Ramsden’s
Harry Ramsden’s is recognized as the birthplace of the world’s most famous fish & chips, serving generations since 1928. Deeply rooted in British culinary tradition, the brand is committed to delivering authentic quality while continuously evolving through innovation, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering focus on customer experience.
