Appetite for expansion as Wimpy bolsters South East presence with Lloyds

Wimpy, the US-based fast-food chain with 64 locations across the UK, is bolstering its presence in the South East thanks to a funding package from Lloyds.

Founded in Indiana in 1934 and having established its first British location in Coventry Street, London 20 years later, Wimpy recently opened a new restaurant in Brighton town centre, creating 35 local jobs.

Works ahead of the grand opening last December included the installation of brand-new equipment – including walk-in freezers, air conditioning units, milkshake and ice cream machines.

The brand also refurbished its existing restaurant in Worthing, backed by a total package of £450,000 from Lloyds.

It’s all part of Wimpy’s UK expansion plan following its 70-year anniversary in the country last year.

Charlie Bhangal, franchise owner of Wimpy’s Worthing and Brighton stores, said: “Wimpy’s growth in the UK has been remarkable.

“What’s allowed the brand to stand the test of time is our unique offering, and we’re excited to have opened a brand-new restaurant in a prime location in Brighton.  

“Many of our sites hold nostalgic memories for people across the country, with hundreds of customers having cherished Wimpy memories.

“We’re also delighted to be able to revive our existing Worthing location, and the support of Lloyds is invaluable in preserving those memories and creating new ones for new and existing customers alike.”

John Tsapparelli, relationship manager at Lloyds, added: “Wimpy is an excellent example of a much-loved business which holds memories for generations of people across the UK.

“It’s great that we’re able to support their continued growth, as well as maintaining their existing locations.

“We look forward to continuing to support them in the future.”