Smoke & Pepper

About Smoke & Pepper

London comfort food business Smoke & Pepper was founded by Sara Ibrahim and Suhail Mala. The business opened its first site in 2022, in Leyton, followed by a second site in 2024, in Bow. It launched a franchise programme in July 2024 and made its regional debut in Manchester in early 2025.

Over the 2025 festive season, Smoke & Pepper opened its 13th location - at Lakeside in Essex, and in January 2026, the business said it is aiming to more than double the size of its estate to circa 30 locations in 2026, as well as commence international franchising.

Franchise consultant Paul Davies said: “A 13th successful store in the UK; 2026 will more than double that, potentially to circa 30-plus stores and the commencement of international franchising - end of 2026. In reality, the Smoke & Pepper franchise is widening the store formats available, meaning even more opportunities.”

The company said the launch of a kiosk at Lakeside means it has now successfully launched all four of its store formats: neighbourhood, medium, flagship and kiosk.

Location number 16 opened in June 2026, in Rotherham’s Forge Island, and it is also eyeing a site in Watford.

Why franchise with Smoke & Pepper

• ✓“Smoke & Pepper has embarked into the world of franchising, offering its fantastically developed concept that you can become a part of,” Davies said. “To entice you further…return on investment between 18-21 months, current sales circa £35,000 to £40,000 a week; modernistic décor; deliciously addictive food leaving customers craving for more; capex cost from £166,000 all in.”
• ✓Formats are kiosk (royalty 5%, marketing levy 1%, circa 600 sqf); neighbourhood (royalty 5%, marketing levy 1%, circa 850 sqf); medium (royalty 5%, marketing levy 1%, circa 1,100 sqf); and flagship (royalty 5%, marketing levy 1%, circa 1,500 sqf. The company said it offers proven sales, a support team and multiple revenue streams.
• ✓“Our franchisee partners receive extensive support, from securing the location to serving customers,” the company said. “Our 14 days on the job training in a functioning branch will allow you to experience each aspect of the business. At the end of 14 days, you will be fully ready to run your franchise with no hitches. Smoke & Pepper make their major food items in house, therefore, every bite is amazingly fresh.
• ✓“The senior team are highly focused majorly on you, our franchise partner, helping you to become highly successful, as that ensures we hold true to our offer of an abundance of quality support, plus your financial returns will take some beating compared to others in the sector.”