PartnerWise Franchise News | January 2026
Franchise expansion activity across the UK is accelerating early in 2026, with both home-grown franchise concepts and major international brands announcing ambitious growth plans.
One notable example is YouMeSushi, which has confirmed plans to open 14 new UK locations during 2026, including several launches already expected in the first quarter. This expansion reflects rising consumer demand for convenient, high-quality food concepts and the strength of franchising as a vehicle for rapid rollout.
At the same time, the UK market continues to attract increased attention from large US franchise brands. Jersey Mike’s, one of the fastest-growing sandwich franchises internationally, has announced intentions to expand significantly across the UK and Ireland, with long-term plans reportedly reaching up to 400 locations.
Meanwhile, established UK franchise networks such as Signs Express are also reinforcing growth ambitions, highlighting priorities including new franchise models, increased enquiry generation, and greater systemisation.
Together, these developments point to a highly active franchise environment in 2026, with strong competition for prime territories and growing opportunity for franchise investors.
Sources:
YouMeSushi Expansion Plans
https://retailtimes.co.uk/youmesushi-accelerates-uk-growth-with-three-new-store-openings-and-14-more-planned-for-2026/
Jersey Mike’s UK & Ireland Rollout
https://bakeryinfo.co.uk/finance/jersey-mikes-subs-targets-400-sites-in-uk-and-ireland-via-new-franchise-deal/713941.article
Signs Express Growth Priorities
https://www.franchisedirect.co.uk/news/signs-express-2026-convention-showcases-network-strength-and-signals-franchise-growth-ambitions