Chili's Sales Are Soaring—Now, the Chain Is Planning a Big New Market Expansion

Chili's has clawed its way to the top in the long-standing fast-casual restaurant chain battle. In recent years, viral moments like the cheese-pull challenge and the Triple Dipper trend have introduced the restaurant to a younger audience. Now, Chili's is using that newfound fame to break into a whole new market altogether.

The chain, which originated in Texas, has branches in 30 countries around the world. These include China, Peru, Qatar, and Honduras. Oddly, the only Chili's currently operating in Europe are on a United States military base in Germany and a brand new location in a Romanian mall.

Chili's Plots U.K. Expansion

Chili's is finally planning to expand to the United Kingdom, tapping into a new market of budget-conscious eaters. While no official plans or locations have been tapped just yet, the Tex-Mex chain is publicly looking for investors and franchise partners for a crop of new locations in the European market.

The request is for a minimum of two million British pounds -- over 2.6 million dollars. Candidates are also asked to have "proven hospitality/food experience" and the ability to work Monday through Friday.

Chili's Has a History in the United Kingdom

A small number of Chili's did temporarily exist in the United Kingdom previously. Around eight restaurants previously operated in towns like Cambridge and Redding in the 1990s and 2000s. All, though, were closed down before 2010.

The powers that be at Chili's are hoping that a new, younger audience might help them find success across the pond once and for all. Recently marketing themselves as more budget-friendly than fast-food alternatives like McDonalds, Chili's may have a case and a new place to say "Hi, welcome to Chili's."