Pedros launches 10 Zimbabwe outlets

South African fast-food brand Pedros Flame Grilled Chicken is set to create approximately 300 jobs in Zimbabwe as it rolls out an initial 10 outlets by February next year.

Founded in 2018, the flame-grilled chicken chain has grown rapidly and now operates more than 210 stores across South Africa, Zambia, Botswana and Kenya. The brand is entering the Zimbabwean market through a possible partnership with Canary Wharf Zimbabwe (CWZ) and other stakeholders.

Executive Head of Delegation Bernard Muneri said the first phase of the expansion will focus on Harare to streamline logistics and strengthen supply chains.

"We are looking at opening about 10 stores within the next year, starting in Harare," Muneri said. "Each store will employ between 30 and 35 people, which means roughly 300 jobs in the first phase alone."

He added that the company would prioritise local sourcing, particularly from Zimbabwean poultry farmers, and would not import chicken products.

International Stores Operations representative Sean Rowe said the chain's regional expansion strategy is anchored on supporting domestic suppliers in each market it enters.

"All our fresh products, such as chicken and vegetables, are sourced locally in the countries we operate in," he said.

New Development Executive Peter Erasmus said Zimbabwe's improving business climate and growing demand in the food services sector make it an attractive investment destination. He noted that landlords are already offering space in food courts in anticipation of the brand's arrival.

CWZ chief executive Cleopas Mugomba said the potential partnership is expected to stimulate employment, skills development and technology transfer, while also supporting local agriculture and manufacturing.

The company believes Zimbabwe's expanding urban consumer base and fast-growing delivery culture position the brand strongly to compete in the grilled chicken segment.