Thai chain Giggling Squid announces new sites including Marlow and Stratford-upon-Avon
Thai chain Giggling Squid has announced plans to open three new restaurants as part of a long-term plan to expand across the UK.
Husband-and-wife owners Andy and Pranee Laurillard have signed contracts for Stratford-upon-Avon, Marlow and Maidstone, adding to their six existing restaurants in Brighton, Hove, Crawley, Henley, Tunbridge Wells and Reigate. Negotiations are also taking place for another potential site in Horsham, West Sussex.
Marlow is expected to be the first new site opening in mid-November, with Stratford planned for just before Christmas.
Having first appeared in Hove in 2008, Giggling Squid's expansion is being funded by profits and bank loans, with plans to open up to six new sites by April 2015.
Speaking of the brand's success, owner Andy emphasised the importance of the food and welcomed the recession as an "opportunity" rather than a hindrance. He said: "We are prepared to encounter growing pains, but we will remain food- rather than brand-led. It's all about getting the food right."
Giggling Squid offers a selection of Thai street food-inspired sharing plates prepared by Thai chefs, using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients where possible. Dishes are served in small portions at low prices, encouraging diners to try many different flavours at once.
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