Wenzel’s signs first-ever franchise partnership

Wenzel’s has signed its first-ever franchise partnership following a new deal with Southern Co-op, in a move that will see it expand its customer base into new regions across the country. 

It comes as the independent family-run bakery, which is led by founder Peter Wenzel and his daughter Sarah as CEO, celebrates its 50th anniversary on the British high street this year.

 The first store under the new franchise model is set to open in Guildford on 10 September, with more expected to follow in the near future. 

Southern Co-op said the new partnership reflects its strategic focus on expanding into the growing demand for food-to-go, bringing “fresh, on-the-go food offerings to high-footfall locations with speed, quality and convenience”. 

Sarah Wenzel, CEO of Wenzel’s, said: “We’re delighted that Southern Co-op have chosen to be our franchise partner and are confident that our collaborative partnership will be mutually beneficial and rewarding in the coming year.

“Southern Co-op is a business that has consistently put the community first, and with this shared vision of offering high-quality food for all, we’re in a strong position to bring delicious, freshly baked goods at accessible prices to even more customers across the UK”. 

Nick Smith, central services director at Southern Co-op, added: “We’re incredibly excited to partner with Wenzel’s as they take their first step into franchising. This partnership represents a powerful alignment of values – great food, great service and a great opportunity to grow. We’re confident that this is only the beginning of a successful journey together.”