The Nashville, Tennessee-headquartered Captain D’s fast-casual seafood franchise in the United States is building momentum for growth further afield as interest from prospective partners expands across Europe. Founded in 1969, the chain operates more than 530 restaurants across 23 states. Its menu includes wild caught batter dipped fish from Alaska, grilled seafood, shrimp, seafood platters, made-to-order side dishes and other items.
Following a successful overseas development tour earlier this year, Senior Vice President of International Operations and Development Hair Parra will return to Europe in mid-October to meet with prospective franchisees and explore opportunities in additional markets. The trip is expected to include Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom, with more countries potentially added.
Interest in Italy has been particularly active, with Captain D’s currently in conversations with prospective partners. The company is also exploring opportunities in Spain, including Madrid and Valencia, while Poland and France remain markets of interest.
“Every time we travel internationally, we come home with more conversations and more new relationships,” said Parra. “It’s exciting to get meaningful interest from experienced operators who recognize the opportunity in bringing a proven American seafood brand to their markets.”
The international momentum comes as Captain D’s enters a growth phase in the USA, highlighted by the September unveiling of its new restaurant design in San Antonio, Texas. The location features a contemporary look and more inviting guest environment while maintaining the brand’s familiar identity.
Captain D’s plans to introduce the new design (seen above) in other American states, including Florida, Ohio and Oklahoma, while continuing to pursue international expansion among experienced restaurant operators, multi-unit franchisees and master franchise partners.
“Our growth story is bigger than opening individual restaurants,” said Brad Reed, the company’s chief development officer. “We’re evolving the Captain D’s experience while staying true to what has made the brand successful for more than five decades.”
