Q&A: Does Hard Rock Cafe Franchise in the UK?

Becky Martin, writer

Published at 19/05/2019, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 5 min

Q&A: Does Hard Rock Cafe Franchise in the UK? — Photo © hard-rock-cafe-franchise.jpg

Hard Rock Cafe is known across the globe for serving fresh, handmade, classic American cuisine and holding the most valued collection of rock’n’roll memorabilia. But can you start a Hard Rock Café franchise in the UK?

Hard Rock Cafe boasts an impressive portfolio of more than 181 cafes, 25 hotels and 11 casinos across 75 countries – making Hard Rock International (HRI) a globally recognised brand. The multinational, themed restaurant chain owns a vast collection of music memorabilia, which is showcased in its locations all over the world. On top of this, Hard Rock Café has a fashion line and music-related merchandise, including branded t-shirts, caps and more. Let’s find out if you can start your own Hard Rock Café franchise unit in the UK. But first, a quick rundown of the brand’s history…

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History of Hard Rock Café franchise

The first Hard Rock Café was launched in 1971 in Mayfair, London. Two Americans, Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton, created their own American-style diner when they couldn’t find a good burger in the city.

Throughout the eighties, Hard Rock Café started to expand rapidly across the globe, and it now operates from over 181 restaurants!

Does Hard Rock Café franchise in the UK?

Unfortunately, no. The company isn’t looking for any franchisees in the UK, potentially because it is focusing more on its international expansion for now. However, watch this space for any available opportunities in the future.

How to get involved with Hard Rock Café

If you’re prepared to move overseas to start your own Hard Rock Café franchise, here’s a quick rundown of the opportunity.

Becoming a Hard Rock Café franchisee: Hard Rock International is on the lookout for experienced multi-unit operators who are passionate about the brand. They should have a proven track record of success in the target market and should be dedicated to the growth of the brand. When prospective franchisees apply, they will be reviewed on their management experience, industry experience, knowledge of the target market and business acumen. Take a look at the Hard Rock Café territories currently available.
How much you need to invest: The standard Hard Rock Café franchise site fees are $350,000-$750,000.
What you get for your investment: You can operate under a brand with years of expertise and with an existing loyal customer base.

The American restaurant industry in the UK

We love a good hearty burger in the UK. Research has shown that American is the fifth most popular cuisine that Brits choose when eating out. If you want to start your own business dishing up classic comfort food to hungry Brits, check out one of the franchises below.

Similar franchise opportunities

Loaded Burgers

This UK restaurant chain boasts high-quality, meaty, flavoursome burgers with a large selection of toppings to contrast the ‘sad’ processed patties of other establishments. Founded in 2014, Loaded Burgers offers its customers affordable burgers in a cool setting.

Becoming a Loaded Burgers franchisee: Those looking to join the brand must have good managerial skills and a passion for the industry. Take a look at the Loaded Burgers page to learn more and sign up.
How much you need to invest: An investment of £150,000 will give franchisees access to the company’s franchise package.
What you get for your investment: All franchisees are enrolled onto a training programme and get support in marketing and sales.

Rocket’s

Our top burger franchise opportunity, Rocket’s, is a fast-casual burger brand that has been franchising for 27 years. It currently has a network of 51 restaurants and serves “hamburgers, fries, hand-dipped milkshakes and buttermilk chicken; all made fresh-to-order from open-view kitchens”.

Rocket’s has developed a business model that balances high quality with convenience. All Rocket’s burgers are made with premium Irish meat that is never frozen. What’s more, all meals are made to order and served within six minutes.

Becoming a Rocket's franchisee: The restaurant franchise prefers investors to have previous experience in the industry, but this isn’t essential. It’s more important that you believe in the brand and are business oriented. Find out more on the Rocket's franchise’s profile page.
How much you need to invest: A minimum investment of £170,000 and a total investment of £200,000 is required.
What you get for your investment: Rocket’s will be on hand to help when you find your perfect premises.

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Denny’s

Denny’s is one of the United States’ most reputable fast food chains and a popular choice of restaurant amongst those who appreciate good food and the company’s all-night service. Denny’s now operates in all 50 states in the US, as well as at least 11 other countries. Out of a total of around 1,700 restaurants, there are approximately 1,600 in the US.

Becoming a Denny’s franchisee: Denny’s is looking to expand into the UK, mainland Europe, China, Southeast Asia, Australia and South America. You can find out more and apply at Denny's.
How much you need to invest: You’ll need liquid capital of around £350,000 and a net worth of £1 million to be accepted as a franchisee.
What you get for your investment: When you become a franchisee, you can look forward to industry-leading franchise support systems. Expect guidance in areas like real estate, advertising and supply chain management. You’ll also get a Denny’s Project Manager.

Start an American restaurant franchise today

Although you can’t start your own Hard Rock Café franchise in the UK, there are still plenty of opportunities to choose from. Have a read of our ‘Top 11 American Restaurant Franchises in the UK’ article for some inspiration.

Here at Point Franchise, we have a large bank of articles that provide helpful content, lots of which explore whether famous American brands franchise in the UK and who their CEOs are. For example, take a look at ‘Meet Tony Lowings, KFC CEO’ and ‘Does Jack in the Box Franchise in the UK?’