Hero Brands appoints new franchise director

Hero Brands has appointed Nil Naik as its new franchise director to help grow the group’s portfolio. 

Naik has over 20 years’ experience in Franchise Sales and Operations, having worked across a variety of franchise models including brands such as Domino’s Pizza, Papa Johns, Chaiiwala and Coffee Republic.  

In his new role, he will help develop and implement the growth strategy of the group, and will work closely with Choppaluna co-founder Nikras Agha, aiding with franchise sales acquisition strategies for the brand. 

Hero Brands said it is “focused on building an ecosystem of the brands of the future”, and is putting together a leadership team assembled from world-leading organisations. 

Its portfolio includes German Doner Kebab, which is now forging ahead with expansion plans in the UK and globally, with 700 franchisees already signed-up to its growth strategy.

Recent growth in the group portfolio also includes partnering with the Sidemen to launch chicken brand Sides, and its estate further consists of Island Poké, the UK’s leading Poké operator and Dirty Bones, the NYC-inspired food and cocktail concept.

Naik said: “Throughout my career in franchising, I have found that the right brands have a game-changing energy and attitude about them, which is why I am delighted to be joining Hero Brands and taking on the role of franchise director. 

“Hero Brands has an impressive, and rapidly growing compilation of future-proof brands and from the outset I am also looking forward to working closely with Nikras and the team to play my part in successfully implementing Choppaluna’s growth ambitions.”

Nikras Agha, Choppaluna founder and CEO added: “I am looking forward to working with Nil on our UK growth ambitions. We have an exciting year ahead of us and I have no doubt he will fit right in and be a driving force within the team.”

Jon Cullen, chief development officer Global at Hero Brands said: “It is an honour and a privilege to welcome Nil to the Hero Brands team. He brings a wealth of international franchising experience with world leading brands and his knowledge will be invaluable as we look to build on our tremendous growth, and work to complete a number of key acquisitions in the near future.”