Strava Group has acquired 14 Domino’s Pizza stores across Scotland, boosting its franchise network with help from NatWest funding. This deal, announced on September 2, 2025, pushes the company’s total stores past 40 and supports its goal to reach 75 locations in the UK.
Deal Highlights and Background
Strava Group, a key player in the UK’s pizza franchise scene, sealed this acquisition to grow its footprint in Scotland. The move comes amid a competitive fast-food market where delivery services continue to boom.
This purchase follows Strava’s earlier expansion, including four stores added in 2024. With NatWest providing a seven-figure funding package, the group can now operate more than 40 Domino’s outlets in England and Scotland combined.
Rickey Sharma, who leads Strava Group, began his career with Domino’s in 2007 and became a franchisee in 2012. His rise shows how hands-on experience drives success in this industry.
The acquisition targets stores in various Scottish regions, aiming to improve local service and create jobs. Experts see this as part of a wider trend where franchises consolidate to handle rising costs and demand.
Strava Group’s Expansion Plans
Strava Group aims to hit 75 Domino’s stores overall, a target that reflects strong confidence in the brand’s appeal. This growth strategy focuses on key areas like efficient operations and customer loyalty.
Recent market data shows Domino’s Pizza Group, the UK master franchisee, reported system sales of about 1.57 billion pounds for 2024. The company also launched a 20 million pound share buyback program in early September 2025, signaling financial health despite economic pressures.
Sharma’s leadership has been crucial. He started as a team member and climbed the ranks, turning his knowledge into a thriving business. The new stores will likely adopt proven methods from existing locations to ensure smooth integration.
This expansion aligns with Domino’s push for digital growth, including better apps and online ordering. As consumer habits shift toward quick delivery, Strava’s move positions it to capture more market share.
- Boosts store count to over 40, enhancing regional coverage.
- Creates opportunities for young workers, as noted by Sharma.
- Strengthens ties with Domino’s for exclusive deals and support.
Funding Role from NatWest
NatWest stepped in with crucial funding, building on its 2024 support for Strava’s previous acquisitions. This partnership highlights the bank’s focus on backing growing franchises in the food sector.
Andy Croasdell, a NatWest relationship manager, praised Strava’s commitment and growth track record. The funding package, described as substantial, allows for quick scaling without heavy debt burdens.
In the broader picture, UK banks like NatWest have increased lending to small and medium businesses in 2025, amid recovering economies. This deal fits into that trend, helping firms like Strava navigate inflation and supply chain issues.
NatWest’s involvement also ties into its strategy for sustainable investments, ensuring funded projects promote job creation and community benefits.
Market Impact and Industry Trends
This acquisition shakes up Scotland’s pizza market, where Domino’s faces rivals like Pizza Hut and local chains. By adding 14 stores, Strava Group can offer faster delivery and more options to customers.
Industry reports from 2025 show the UK fast-food sector growing by about 5 percent yearly, driven by takeaway demand. Domino’s itself forecasted muted profit growth but reaffirmed its 2025 earnings outlook, showing resilience.
| Year | Key Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Rickey Sharma joins Domino’s | Builds foundation for future growth |
| 2012 | Becomes franchisee | Starts operating own stores |
| 2024 | Acquires 4 stores with NatWest help | Expands initial presence |
| 2025 | Buys 14 Scottish stores | Reaches over 40 total outlets |
Competitors may respond with their own expansions, but Strava’s focus on quality could give it an edge. Analysts predict this will lead to better pricing and innovations in menu items.
The deal also creates jobs, with estimates suggesting dozens of new positions in operations and delivery. This comes at a time when Scotland’s economy seeks boosts from private investments.
Statements from Leaders
Sharma expressed excitement about the milestone, crediting NatWest for making it possible. He highlighted how the acquisition opens doors for young people starting careers, much like his own path.
Croasdell echoed this, noting Strava’s strong vision aligns with NatWest’s goals. Both leaders see this as a step toward long-term success in the franchise world.
These comments reflect optimism in the sector, even as broader challenges like rising ingredient costs persist.
Looking Ahead for Strava and Domino’s
Strava Group plans to integrate the new stores swiftly, focusing on training and tech upgrades. This positions the company for further growth in 2026 and beyond.
Domino’s Pizza Group, overseeing UK operations, continues to invest in digital tools and store networks. With recent agreements extending franchise deals to 2030, stability looks solid.
As the fast-food landscape evolves, moves like this show how targeted acquisitions drive progress. Stakeholders watch closely for how this affects stock performance and market dynamics.
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