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WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 15 “GDK has brought a new dimension to the kebab market by offering a quality fresh gourmet range that is also healthy” chef to prepare meals - it’s more a case of assembling top class ingredients. In other words, you’ve got what’s been called a German engineered kebab. UK franchise network The first UK franchise opened in Birmingham in 2015, followed by a flagship store in London’s Fulham Broadway. The company plans to have 700 franchise stores in the UK in the next 10 years and a further 1,500 worldwide. UK franchises are run by Glasgow-based United Brands, which bought world rights in 2017. United Brands has signed up over 200 franchise locations across the UK. The company’s owners, the Sarwar family, operate one of Scotland’s most successful business groups. The £230 million business empire includes a wholesale cash and carry operation, over 500 franchised convenience stores, a chain of pubs, Asian restaurants and a pharmacy group. customer service training, plus sales, marketing and business administration. Franchisees get at least two days’ aftercare from an expert once their store has opened and access to an ongoing support and development programme designed to accelerate the growth of a business, particularly in the crucial early stages. There is daily telephone support available and regular business mentoring and visits. What makes GDK different? The company explains: “We have created something authentic but healthy, with lean succulent meat, handmade breads and signature sauces. “Our methods are totally different to the way other operators make their kebabs. The result is a nutritionally sound gourmet food experience that contains virtually no preservatives or additives.” GDK says its franchise is simple to operate. The blueprint is firmly in place and the business doesn’t even need a qualified