Gourmet chicken business Rooster Shack is aiming to grow to 25 sites over the next five years and has lined up an international debut in 2026.
Founded in 2016 by Imran and Abbas Mamud, Rooster Shack opened three locations in Surrey before expanding with sites in Birmingham and Stockport. Rooster Shack now has just those three Surrey locations again but has set its sights on growing again not only to other parts of the UK, but also overseas.
Abbas Mamud said: “As the co-founder and chief operating officer of Rooster Shack, my vision for the next five years is both ambitious and exciting.
I firmly believe we can expand out footprint to 25 stores during this period. This goal stems from my own journey in this industry, which began at the age of 16. I’ve gained invaluable experience along the way, learning the ins and outs and what makes a restaurant thrive. Rooster Shack stands out as a trendsetter because of our unwavering commitment to quality and creativity.
We don’t just serve food; we serve experiences that delight our customers. Our innovative menu and the unique atmosphere we create have captured a loyal following, setting us apart from our competition.”
He added: “To achieve this growth, we’re implementing a strategic plan that focuses on thorough market analysis and selecting prime locations. We’re also investing in technology to streamline our operations, making the customer experience even better. Our team is our greatest asset, and I plan to empower our staff with training that ensures we maintain the high standards our customers except as we expand.
A significant milestone on this journey will be the opening of our first store outside of the UK, in the Middle East, in 2026. This expansion is a testament to our brand’s strength and the hard work of our entire team.
I’m confident that with our shared passion and commitment, Rooster Shack will continue to grow and thrive on a global scale.”
With three young children, including one with special needs, home life is as full-on as his workday: “It’s a challenge, but I’ve built a trusted team that makes it all possible.”
Stephen makes the most of his free time with his family saying: “I love taking the caravan out with my partner and kids to explore the UK.
We’ve discovered some incredible coastlines and enjoy simple pleasures, like traditional fish and chips by the seaside, which always tastes better fresh and salty from the sea air.”
Despite the brand’s increasing national presence and a string of industry awards, Hopper remains grounded in his mission to make business ownership more accessible. He’s especially proud of the impact Plan Burrito has had on its franchisees.
He said: “When someone tells me that owning a franchise has changed their life, that they finally feel in control of their future, that’s the most rewarding part of all of this.”
Reflecting on his journey, Hopper offers one piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: “You don’t need experience. What you need is belief, persistence, and a lot of elbow grease.”
