Seeing new owners in 2019, the brand is now embarking on an ambitious expansion plan
Miss Millie’s has been in the quick service chicken restaurant business for decades.
Serving affordable, premium takeaway food to customers across the south west and Wales since 1988, the company was set up by Harry Latham, who introduced KFC to the UK, and his business partner Ray Allen.
As Harry and his family were good friends with KFC founder Colonel Sanders, he decided to name the new venture after the Colonel’s daughter, Mildred.
Miss Millie’s saw new owners in 2019 and the company is now headed up by Carl Traill, former Burger King director of operations UK. Carl is now embarking on an ambitious expansion plan by offering franchises to suitable candidates interested in investing in a multi-site opportunity.
Stores can be set up in city centre or suburban locations, shopping centres, food courts, airports and holiday parks. Ideal site size is between 1,000 and 2,500 square feet. Assistance with site selection and fit-out is provided by the franchisor. Multi-unit franchisees benefit from economies and enjoy improved incentives.
Franchisees get five weeks’ training in all aspects of the business, including effective supply chain management, HR and business development.
They also receive ongoing support, quarterly business reviews, access to Miss Millie’s IP Food safety and health and safety courses and benefit from the regular advertising and promotional activity organised by the franchisor, plus its extensive new product development programme, ensuring the brand’s food offering remains in demand in a competitive marketplace.
It costs in the region of £175,000-£450,000 to set up a full-sized Miss Millie’s store (the franchise fee is £25,000). Ongoing charges include a management fee of 7.5 per cent of turnover and a 2.5 per cent of turnover contribution to the Miss Millie’s marketing fund.
Miss Millie’s uses only Grade A farm-assured chickens from suppliers that meet the highest welfare standards.
Customers can order their food via the company’s ordering app, which not only cuts queues and simplifies ordering, but offers a significant upselling opportunity, helping to maximise franchisees’ return on investment.
Miss Millie’s outlets also feature fully integrated digital self-service kiosks, further enhancing the customer experience.
Franchisee Sarah Wilson says: “As a second-generation franchisee, my family have worked alongside Miss Millie’s for over 30 years.
“The business model is a great opportunity for individuals and businesses alike, providing a steady income stream from a well recognised and long-established brand.
“There’s a real affinity for Miss Millie’s amongst the customer base and the involvement in local community causes and sustainability is especially important to me.
“When I purchased the business, Miss Millie’s provided a great deal of support - someone would always be there if I needed some advice.
“I’m very much looking forward to seeing the exciting new reimagining of the brand over the coming months.”