National law firm Freeths has advised EG Group on the sale of its 218 KFC franchise restaurants across the UK and Ireland to Yum! Brands’ KFC Division.

Expected to complete in the first half of 2024, this transaction is part of the global retailer’s successful portfolio optimisation strategy and continued progress towards putting in place sustainable growth and innovation.

Founded by Issa brothers in 2001, EG Group is a British retailer which operates filling stations, convenience stores and fast-food restaurants across Europe, the United States and Australia.

The Freeths legal team was led by Real Estate Partner Atiyya Khaliq, supported by Managing Associates Zac Clayton and Michaela Mason, Associate Samuel De La Bertauche and Legal Assistant Poppy Hinton.

It comes just weeks after Freeths advised on the completion of EG Group’s £2.07bn sale of its UK operations to Asda.

Commenting on the deal, Atiyya Khaliq said: “As a valued client, it’s great to see EG Group’s corporate sustainability strategy coming to life.This deal is an important step in securing growth across the UK and Ireland and it demonstrates the strength of our team’s retail sector expertise. I look forward to continuing working with EG Group on the next stage of its exciting journey.”

EG Group continues to operate in the USA, Australia, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Belgium and the UK, including its wholly owned bakery business, Cooplands, as well as franchise businesses with the Starbucks, Subway, Greggs, Sbarro, Chaiiwala and Cinnabon brands.