UK-based American diner chain Zak’s Diner has launched its first franchise as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, appointing local operators Jacob Potter and Jess Jarvis to lead a mobile-format rollout under Zak’s on the Road Norfolk.
The franchise will operate via the brand’s “Lil’ Blue” van, taking Zak’s offering to events, festivals and pop-ups across Norfolk, while also catering to weddingsand private events. The menu will feature chargrilled burgers, wings, hot dogs and classic Zak’s American favourites.
Founded in 1976 in Norwich by Harvey Platt, Zak’s began as a small burger venture before growing into a well-known American-style diner brand in East Anglia. The business is now owned by Chris Carr and Ian Hacon, who acquired it in 2020 and have been working to position the company for its next phase of growth.
The move into franchising marks a significant shift for the brand, which has operated company-owned sites for five decades. The first franchise is being positioned as a pilot for future expansion, allowing Zak’s to test a scalable model while maintaining operational control.
Commenting on the launch, the company said the initiative is aimed at “taking Zak’s to new areas” while ensuring the brand’s identity and standards are preserved. Leadership added that the franchise model has been developed to maintain consistency in food quality, service and the overall diner experience.
With Potter and Jarvis leading the first external partnership, Zak’s is adopting a measured, partner-led approach to franchising, focusing on gradual expansion rather than rapid rollout.
The introduction of a mobile-format franchise reflects a broader industry trend, with legacy restaurant brands increasingly leveraging flexible, lower-capex formats to expand reach, build visibility and test new markets before committing to permanent locations.
