Atlanta-based bakery chain Cinnabon Inc. is to open its first United Kingdom location in a London tourist hotspot.
The company’s signature cinnamon rolls will be doled out at Trocadero Centre mall in Piccadilly Circus, a London crossroads known for its neon signs and nearby shopping.
Company officials said they have signed an agreement with franchise partner Cinnaworld Ltd. to open 40 shops in the U.K. Rayhaan Hassim, principal owner of Cinnaworld, said the first location is an auspicious one for the company.
“We look forward to introducing travelers, residents and mall shoppers and employees to the historical and wildly popular Piccadilly Circus to our extensive lines of delicious treats,” he said.
Cinnabon currently has more than 600 locations in 30 countries.
Focus Brands Inc., the bakery’s parent company, also has franchisees under such names as Carvel Ice Cream, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky’s deli and Seattle’s Best Coffee. The Atlanta company operates 2,200 restaurants in 32 countries.
“We always have our eyes open for international opportunities, and when we can work with existing franchise partners to expand our presence in Europe and other regions abroad, that’s the frosting on the roll,” said Mike Shattuck, senior vice president for international operations at Focus.
