German Doner Kebab and Sides owner Hero Brands carves out £1.4m profit and fresh growth plans
“We are entering an exciting period of growth for Hero Brands as we continue to re-invest and create category defining brands that represent today’s culture” – chairman Athif Sarwar
German Doner Kebab owner Hero Brands said it was continuing to grow its footprint after reporting underlying profits of £1.4 million.
The East Kilbride-headquartered group is a platform for incubating a number of brands which include German Doner Kebab and hot-chicken specialist Sides. It delivered group earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) of £1.4m for the past financial year, while operating profit, before exceptional items, came in at about £700,000.
The firm said it was pioneering within the creator and talent IP space through the development of its Sides brand in collaboration with YouTube collective The Sidemen. Hero Brands has also launched Hero NXT, a talent and licensing agency dedicated to forging long-term strategic partnerships and co-developing creator-led products and brand IP across entertainment, sports, fashion, food, beverage and lifestyle.
Meanwhile, the group said German Doner Kebab (GDK) continued to strengthen its position as the “world’s leading kebab brand”. GDK’s system-wide sales globally were £179.1m in the year to the end of December 2024.
During the current financial year, GDK received a strategic investment from True Capital to support its continued rollout in the UK and accelerate growth across existing and new markets globally.
Now employing more than 4,500 people in its restaurants around the world, the group said it was well placed for significant UK and new region growth over the next decade.
Hero Brands chairman Athif Sarwar said: “We are entering an exciting period of growth for Hero Brands as we continue to re-invest and create category defining brands that represent today’s culture.
“Our goal is to connect with new talent across music, fashion and culture, and use our platform to incubate and scale high-value sustainable brands.”
He added: “What resonates today are authentic connections and culture-worthy moments that reflect consumer values and identity. We are focused on making partnerships that don’t just sell products or services, but spark conversation, build belonging and community, and deliver sustainable value.”
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