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Houston TX Hot Chicken Enters UK Through PizzaExpress Franchise Deal
The fast-casual chain plans three UK openings in 2026 and about 50 sites over three years as PizzaExpress becomes its European master franchisee.
- On Monday, June 22, 2026, Las Vegas-based Houston TX Hot Chicken announced its first international expansion, entering the UK market through a master franchise agreement with PizzaExpress.
- Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur Edmond Barseghian and Houston Crosta, HHC has grown to 29 locations across eight states, backed by Utah-based Savory Fund.
- Known for its bold menu, HHC features the Original Hot Chicken Sandwich and a waiver-required 2 million Scoville unit experience called "Houston, We Have A Problem."
- PizzaExpress, operating nearly 500 locations across its house of brands, will serve as master franchisee for Europe, combining HHC's model with its operational infrastructure.
- Group CEO of PizzaExpress Paula MacKenzie said the brand brings "something truly distinctive" to the UK market, marking a step in the operator's diversification strategy.
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27 Articles
Houston TX Hot Chicken partners with PizzaExpress for UK expansion
US-based fast-casual chain Houston TX Hot Chicken (HHC) has entered a master franchise agreement with PizzaExpress to debut in the UK.The post Houston TX Hot Chicken partners with PizzaExpress for UK expansion appeared first on Verdict Food Service.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources27
Leaning Left1Leaning Right0Center22Last UpdatedBias Distribution96% Center
Bias Distribution
- 96% of the sources are Center
96% Center
C 96%
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