For Khurram Saleem, the fast-food industry has always been more than just a business—it’s been a passion. From his early days working at McDonald’s during his studies to owning a fast-food restaurant and a pizza shop, food has always played a central role in his entrepreneurial journey. But when the opportunity arose to bring Chicken Cottage to Watford North, he knew it was the perfect next step.
A Natural Fit for a Passionate Entrepreneur
With a background in IT consultancy and property development, Khurram was no stranger to managing businesses. But his heart was always in the food industry. He wanted to invest in a brand with strong customer loyalty, quality products, and a well-established support system—Chicken Cottage ticked all the boxes.
“Chicken Cottage has a great reputation, and the support they offer franchisees is second to none. It felt like the right choice to combine my experience with a trusted brand,” he says.
Bringing Chicken Cottage to Watford
Opening a franchise requires careful planning and investment. Khurram used a mix of personal savings, rental income, and funds from his IT consultancy business to turn his vision into reality. On January 22, 2025, Chicken Cottage Watford North officially opened its doors—and the response from the community was overwhelmingly positive.
“From day one, customers were excited to have a Chicken Cottage in the area. The brand already had a strong following, but seeing the buzz and support firsthand was incredible,” Khurram recalls.
The Challenges & Rewards of Franchise Ownership
Like any business, the journey wasn’t without challenges. Adapting the existing shop layout to meet Chicken Cottage’s brand standards required time and effort, but with the right team and support, Khurram ensured everything was completed on schedule.
Since opening, the business has continued to grow, thanks to a strong team, a focus on quality, and the backing of a recognised brand. Managing the day-to-day operations, leading a team, and engaging with customers keeps Khurram busy, but for him, it’s all part of the excitement of running a successful franchise.
“Every day is different, but the goal is always the same—providing great food and great service. The structure of a franchise helps, but your dedication and leadership are what make the difference.”
Advice for Aspiring Franchisees
Having successfully launched his Chicken Cottage franchise, Khurram encourages aspiring business owners to choose a brand that aligns with their strengths.
“Do your research, understand the financial commitment, and be ready to put in the work. A franchise gives you a roadmap, but success depends on your passion and effort.”
What’s next?
With his first Chicken Cottage franchise thriving, Khurram is already thinking about the future. Expansion is on the horizon, and he hopes to open more locations in the coming years.
“This is just the beginning. I see huge potential with Chicken Cottage, and I’m excited to be part of its growth.”
Could You Be the Next Chicken Cottage Franchisee?
Khurram’s journey proves that with the right brand, mindset, and support, success in franchising is within reach. If you’re ready to take the leap into business ownership with Chicken Cottage, get in touch today to learn more about franchise opportunities!
