Fast-growing, UK-based restaurant franchise IRO Sushi plans to open at least 10 new stores in the next year, including two – in Woking and Tunbridge Wells – before xmas.
The move is part of its overall ambition to scale to 100 locations by 2030. Outside of the UK, it also plans to expand to Europe and the Middle East and recently underwent a makeover, including a new logo and branding concepts as well as new operating practices and franchising guidelines.
Founded in 2014, IRO Sushi has 30 quick-service restaurants in the UK, offering made-to-order sushi and Japanese-inspired menus. It began franchising in 2019 and by 2023 had over 20 sites. In the year to March 2025, it had a turnover of £16m, up 56% on the previous year.
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IRO Sushi’s USP is its use of sustainable and quality seafood from Norway as well as authentic sauces and toppings from Japan. It aims to bring “premium, restaurant-quality sushi to all”. Its sushi chef Chhong Sherpa says: “Consumers today want quick, protein-rich meals that make them feel good, which has fuelled our rapid expansion with 20 openings in the last 18 months.”
