German Doner Kebab (GDK), one of the UK’s fastest-growing restaurant brands, has announced it will launch in Ireland for the first time this year through a master franchise agreement with long-standing partner Strava Group.
The move will see the opening of GDK’s first Irish site in Liffey Valley, Dublin, before the end of the year, with a commitment to roll out 30 restaurants across the country over the next decade.
The announcement comes as GDK celebrates the opening of its 150th UK restaurant in Leeds later this month, marking a milestone in its decade of rapid expansion. The brand has grown at pace through a franchise model, cementing its presence on UK high streets, travel hubs, and shopping centres, and is now accelerating its international footprint.
GDK continues to build cultural relevance and customer loyalty through a combination of innovation and premium quality at value. From pioneering a plant-based doner and trialling the UK’s first breakfast doner menu, to launching its new Fiver value menu and bold limited-time flavours, the brand has consistently responded to consumer demand with fresh formats and creative campaigns.
Simon Wallis, CEO of GDK, said: “At GDK, our vision is to dominate the kebab category across the world and in every neighbourhood – one kebab, done right, at a time. We value working with Master Franchise partners who share and believe in our purpose to elevate the kebab experience, one kebab, done right, at a time. I am excited to announce that we have further strengthened our relationship with our long-standing Franchise Partner, the Strava Group who have helped build the brand to what it looks like today. We look forward to continuing to work with them to fulfil the potential of the brand in Ireland.”
Rickey Sharma, CEO of Strava Group, added: “German Doner Kebab is rewriting the rules of the kebab experience worldwide, and Ireland is the next chapter in that story. We see tremendous potential in introducing our fresh, premium, and innovative approach to this market, and we’re confident it will resonate with a new generation of customers. Our mission is to deliver the same high-quality food, distinctive style, and cultural connection that have made GDK a global success. Liffey Valley will be the launchpad for what we believe will be a strong and sustained nationwide presence.”
The launch will also create new jobs locally, with over 25 positions generated at the Liffey Valley site and more to follow as the rollout continues.
