French burger specialist Big M is expanding its footprint with the acquisition of the master franchises for Fatburger and Buffalo’s Cafe, a strategic move signaling a turning point for the company founded in 2019 in Bondy. The deal reflects a growing trend of consolidation within the fast-casual dining sector as companies seek to broaden their offerings and capture market share.
The acquisition is intended to elevate Big M’s brand positioning and expand its menu while maintaining the core elements that have driven the success of its quick-service restaurant network, according to a company statement. The first Fatburger location is slated to open on April 2nd in Rosny 2.
Growth Strategy
Big M, a pioneer in the French halal street-food market, currently operates 68 restaurants in France and two franchised locations in Senegal. The company anticipates opening approximately 30 new restaurants this year. By adding Fatburger – established in 1952 on the U.S. West Coast – and Buffalo’s Cafe, known for its fried chicken recipes, Big M is leveraging established expertise from the American fast-food market.
“By acquiring these two master franchises, we are capitalizing on years of understand-how and expertise in the fast-food market,” explained Mehdi Bella, co-founder of Big M. Fatburger focuses on premium, customizable burgers, while Buffalo’s Cafe will introduce products relatively new to the French market, such as boneless wings.
Leveraging American Brands
While Big M intends to build on the established American reputation of both brands, the company is committed to maintaining its core principles: attractive pricing, welcoming restaurants, and a strong emphasis on product quality, including Irish grass-fed beef.
The company’s stated objective is to offer “healthy and delicious” burgers and combine “the best products in one place,” while remaining accessible to all generations.
Expansion Plans
Big M plans an ambitious rollout of the new franchises, projecting 5 to 6 openings under the Fatburger and Buffalo’s Cafe brands in 2025, 15 in 2026, and 20 in 2027, for a total of 40 units within two years. The group also announced it is recruiting new franchisees, employees, and a dedicated operations director for the two brands.
