Afrikana
Founded in 2018, Afrikana is an African-inspired restaurant franchise with around 20 UK locations. Known for bold flavours and vibrant dining, it offers flexible formats and expansion opportunities.
About Afrikana
Afrikana brings African-inspired flavours to the UK high street through vibrant restaurants and a menu influenced by home-cooked dishes. Created by entrepreneur Omair Ali in Aldridge, West Midlands, in 2018, the brand is part of City Restaurant Group and has grown to approximately 20 UK locations.
Its flexible formats range from compact Lil’ Afrikana kiosks to larger casual dining restaurants, including a site at London Designer Outlet in Wembley Park. The brand has also explored opportunities in airports and shopping centres.
Afrikana’s expansion includes a ten-restaurant franchise agreement covering London and surrounding areas, alongside a five-site master franchise agreement in Kenya announced in April 2026. Plans to enter Ireland were announced in September 2026. Franchise partners can access training and ongoing business support as Afrikana pursues further UK and international growth.
Why franchise with Afrikana
- Established African-inspired restaurant brand with approximately 20 locations operating across the UK.
- Flexible franchise formats, from compact quick-service outlets to larger casual dining restaurants.
- Single-site and multi-site opportunities supported by an experienced franchise management team.
- Comprehensive management and staff training, with site selection and property development support.
- Ongoing marketing and operational assistance to help franchise partners develop their businesses.
- International expansion opportunities, with potential business funding for eligible applicants.
Investment breakdown
| Minimum investment | £220,000 |
|---|---|
| Maximum investment | £326,000 |
What's expected of a franchisee
Property requirements
Afrikana offers three franchise formats: Lil’ Afrikana (600-1,000 sq ft, up to 20 covers), Afrikana (1,500-1,800 sq ft, 30-50 covers) and Afrikana XL (minimum 2,000 sq ft, 60+ covers). Suitable sites include high streets, shopping centres and leisure destinations with strong footfall. Properties must accommodate kitchen facilities, storage, seating and service areas. Franchisees receive guidance on restaurant design, fit-out and equipment requirements.
Training and support
Afrikana provides comprehensive franchise training and ongoing support, covering management, staff development and operational procedures. Franchisees receive guidance on restaurant design, fit-out, equipment and pre-opening preparation, alongside launch marketing and promotional assistance. An experienced franchise management team provides continued operational guidance, business development support and advice on maintaining food quality, customer service and brand standards.
Operational requirements
Afrikana offers flexible single-site and multi-site franchise opportunities across different restaurant formats. Daily operations include food preparation, customer service, staff management, stock control and maintaining food safety standards. Franchisees are responsible for overseeing financial performance, managing suppliers and supporting local marketing activities. All locations must follow established operating procedures to maintain consistent food quality, service and brand standards.
Experience required
Afrikana welcomes ambitious, commercially minded individuals seeking single-site or multi-site franchise opportunities. Ideal candidates should demonstrate strong business management, leadership, organisational and customer service skills. Previous hospitality, restaurant management or franchising experience is beneficial but not essential, with training provided. Franchisees must be committed to maintaining brand standards, managing teams effectively and supporting business growth.
Territory availability
Gallery
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