Gourmet Burger Kitchen

History

Gourmet Burger Kitchen was founded in London in 2001 by three New Zealanders: Adam Wills, Greg Driscoll, and Brandon Allen. The menu was developed under the guidance of chef Peter Gordon, also from New Zealand but based in London, and the first restaurant opened that same year. It introduced the idea of "gourmet burgers" to the city, becoming known for its large burgers, fresh ingredients, and casual service. After the Battersea location proved successful, more restaurants opened across London.

In 2005, the founders sold the business to Clapham House Group PLC, which expanded the chain to 53 locations throughout the UK. Capricorn Ventures, the company behind Nando's, bought GBK in 2010, growing it to 60 UK restaurants with further expansion planned. Franchises also opened in Ireland, Dubai, Greece, and Oman. In September 2016, South African firm Famous Brands purchased the chain for US$143.3 million.

By August 2018, GBK reported significant losses from falling sales. In October 2018, it announced a £47 million loss and plans to shut 17 restaurants. In October 2020, Ranjit Singh Boparan bought the company out of administration. As part of the deal, 26 restaurants were permanently closed, resulting in 362 job losses, while 35 restaurants continued operating.