UK-based sushi chain IRO Sushi is strengthening its position in the country’s fast-growing quick-service restaurant market, as the brand pushes ahead with expansion plans and a renewed focus on freshly prepared, restaurant-quality sushi served at fast-food speeds.
Founded in 2014 by trained sushi chef Chhong Sherpa, the company has built its business around made-to-order sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes designed for takeaway, delivery and quick dine-in occasions. The brand says every sushi roll is prepared fresh using responsibly sourced fish, seasoned rice and fresh vegetables, with chefs trained in authentic Japanese techniques.
IRO Sushi currently operates more than 30 quick-service restaurants across the UK and serves more than one million customers annually, according to company and industry reports.
The company is now accelerating its expansion strategy. Earlier this week, IRO Sushi confirmed five new UK locations in Basingstoke, Bristol, Ipswich, Ilford and Maidenhead, taking its estate to 38 sites.
The new restaurants will feature the brand’s redesigned store concept inspired by traditional Japanese izakayas, combining subdued lighting, modern interiors and touchscreen kiosks aimed at improving customer flow and operational efficiency. The first location to showcase the updated format opened in Woking earlier this year.
IRO Sushi reported system sales of £18.5 million last year, representing 29% year-on-year growth and 19% like-for-like growth, as demand for convenient, protein-rich meal options continues to rise in the UK market.
The company is targeting 100 locations by 2030 and has also outlined ambitions to expand internationally into Europe and the Middle East.
Speaking about the company’s latest growth phase, Chhong Sherpa said: “This is another significant milestone for IRO Sushi.” He added that the company had spent the past several months refining its proposition through a new store format and menu evolution before preparing to “turbocharge” expansion across the UK.
Sherpa also noted that changing consumer preferences are supporting the category’s growth, stating that customers increasingly want “quick, protein-rich meals” that still deliver quality and freshness.
IRO Sushi began franchising in 2019 and has rapidly expanded its footprint since then. In the year to March 2025, the company reported turnover of £16 million, up 56% from the previous year.
