Bristol-headquartered Hotcha, which aims to be the UK’s first national Chinese takeaway chain, today announced plans to open 100 franchised branches across the country over the next five years.
The firm, founded two years ago by entrepreneur James Liang, pictured, has appointed former Dominos Pizza business development director Andrew Emmerson as non-executive director to support the national expansion programme. 
Hotcha is seeking experienced franchisees and fast food managers to run the franchise operations. Liang has launched the franchise scheme to establish Hotcha as a national brand following its successful roll out from its first five outlets in Bristol to towns such as Swindon and Weston-super-Mare. It now has nine branches.
The company is looking for partners with strong local market knowledge to share in the success of the business. It is expected that franchisees will need around £75,000 in personal funds to start a Hotcha store, with the remaining start-up costs available through bank financing. Stores in the South West have typically turned over £500,000 per annum with profits of £150,000.
James Liang said: “We are looking for experienced franchisees with strong knowledge of their local markets, a successful track record in business or the food sector and the ambition to launch Hotcha stores in due course. Knowledge of Chinese cuisine is not a prerequisite, as we have developed efficient processes and a training programme which ensures that our food can be cooked quickly and to a high standard.”
Hotcha has proved particularly popular with families, young professionals and students. Stores are branded with a modern ‘street’ image and attract custom through multiple channels including online ordering, takeaway, delivery and dine in services.
While at Dominos Pizza, Mr Emmerson oversaw the sourcing and opening of more than 50 stores annually. He has also been managing director of Millie’s Cookies, international brand director at Upper Crust a senior executive at Dunkin Donuts in the US.
