Unit
Unit is an independent, fast-casual food brand offering franchise opportunities built around bold American comfort food, fresh-to-order burgers, house-made sauces and distinctive, street-art-inspired diners. Franchise formats and end-to-end support are available for new locations across the UK.
About Unit
Founded by Mo and Nabz, Unit began in Sheffield after the founders set out to make food you crave. The brand serves fresh-to-order burgers made with quality ingredients including beef, chicken, wings, loaded fries, baos, shakes and vegan options. Its urban diner design, own-recipe sauces and seasonings, strong visual identity and community-minded approach help it stand apart. Unit serves students, families, local residents, groups and delivery customers. The business has two established Sheffield diners and has also operated as a food-hall vendor.
Why franchise with Unit
- Distinctive fast-casual brand with an urban, street-art-inspired identity.
- Multiple revenue streams: dine-in, extensive desserts, takeaway, virtual brands, delivery, merchandise and event/truck opportunities.
- End-to-end support with site search, design and build, training, launch marketing and operations.
- Established operating experience, with Unit founded in 2016 and a Sheffield customer base.
- Support with business planning and funding applications, plus a transparent financial model.
Investment breakdown
| Minimum investment | £100,000 |
|---|---|
| Maximum investment | £400,000 |
| Franchise fee | £15,000 |
| Management service fee | 6% of turnover |
| Marketing contribution | 2% of turnover |
| Agreement term | 5 years and 10 years options |
What's expected of a franchisee
Property requirements
Preferred formats include a distinctive dine-in restaurant in a high-street or leisure/retail destination, with potential for takeaway and delivery. Unit promotes XL (approx. 3,000 sq. ft.) and Large (approx. 2,000 sq. ft.) formats; the website also lists a Truck Unit format, though its stated size should be confirmed. Sites should suit strong food-service footfall and provide practical customer access. Final location, seating, parking and population criteria to be confirmed with the franchisor.
Training and support
Unit describes end-to-end support including initial induction training for the franchisee and store manager, site search and acquisition, design and build, launch marketing, operational manuals, EPOS and ongoing operational guidance. The team supports business-plan development and funding applications and provides marketing support. Confirm the precise scope of recruitment assistance and ongoing training during franchise discussions.
Operational requirements
A hands-on franchisee or capable management team is required to maintain food quality, service standards and brand consistency. Staffing levels, opening hours, equipment, vehicle needs and any local licensing requirements will depend on the selected site and format and should be agreed with Unit. The existing Sheffield diners operate extended hours, but franchise hours will be location dependent.
Experience required
Previous restaurant or franchise experience is not stated as essential on the website. Unit supports candidates through business planning and training; applicants should discuss their background and suitability with the franchise team.
Unit looks for a strong can-do attitude, a proven focus on customer service, an understanding of staff needs and motivation, an appreciation of what a franchise brand represents, belief in the Unit brand and the financial capability to invest. Candidates should be committed to delivering consistent standards and actively running or overseeing the business.
Territory availability
Request franchise information
Your details go straight to the Unit franchise team. There's no cost to enquire.