Captain D’s, a leading US fast-casual seafood restaurant chain, is set to make its debut in the UK as part of its first expansion into Europe. The company has partnered with CD’s Holdings, an experienced UK-based investment group, to bring its signature seafood offerings to British diners.
Under a newly signed 20-unit master franchise agreement, the first Captain D’s restaurant will open in Kent in August 2025, with additional locations planned for Sussex and Hampshire shortly after. The move marks a significant step in the company’s international expansion strategy.
Expanding the UK’s Fish and Chips Market
CD’s Holdings, the group leading the expansion, is comprised of entrepreneurs with extensive experience in both the restaurant industry and other business sectors, including security and accountancy.
“We have been looking for the right brand to introduce to the UK market, which is exciting and healthy,” said Naveed Chattha, Operations Director of CD’s Holdings. “There is a large fish and chips market in the UK, but no one has tried to apply discipline, standards, and quality to such a level here before. With our experience, we feel Captain D’s is the right choice.”
Captain D’s aims to offer a fresh take on the traditional British fish and chips market by providing a structured franchise model with a strong emphasis on quality and consistency. Initial locations will be established around London, with the company actively seeking additional franchisees to further expand its UK presence.
Global Growth Plans
As part of its broader vision, Captain D’s is positioning itself as an international seafood brand with ambitions beyond the UK.
“This is an exciting time in the growth of our brand,” said Hair Parra, Senior Vice President of International Operations and Development for Captain D’s. “Our master franchisees are committed to making a sustainable impact in the UK, and we are committed to working alongside them and offering new opportunities to other entrepreneurs as we expand into new international markets.”
The company’s menu, which features seafood and chicken dishes tailored to diverse cultural preferences, is expected to resonate well with UK customers. Captain D’s believes its approach will set it apart in a market that is already familiar with traditional fish and chips but lacks a structured, high-standard fast-casual seafood chain.
Future Expansion Plans
With over 530 restaurants across 23 US states, Captain D’s is the top-ranked seafood franchise in America based on average unit volume.
Following its UK launch, the company has set its sights on further international growth, targeting Canada, Central and Latin America, the Caribbean, Spain, the Philippines, Singapore, and Indonesia. Captain D’s is actively seeking master franchisees and multi-unit operators to drive its expansion in these regions.
The first UK restaurant is expected to open its doors in just over a year, introducing British diners to a new seafood dining experience that blends American fast-casual convenience with the familiarity of the UK’s beloved fish and chips.
