Famous Brands

Famous Brands (formerly known as Steers Group) is a South African-based conglomerate predominately dealing in fast casual restaurants, and is currently headquartered in Midrand.

Founded in 1960, the company operates around 3,000 locations across 30 countries,[1] and listed on the JSE Limited in 1994.[3] It is a level 1 BBBEE contributor.[4]

The company is also involved in food and beverage manufacturing, logistics, and retail, in relation to its restaurant outlets.[3]

History

Founded by George Halamandress in 1960, Famous Brands was originally known as Steers. Halamandress had previously created the original Milky Lane ice cream parlours, followed in quick succession by the first South African steakhouse.[5]

In 1999, Steers Group acquired Debonairs Pizza.[6]

In August 2003, Famous Brands acquired Pleasure Foods, which included the South African master franchise license for Wimpy for R150.6 million.[7]

In February 2007, Famous Brands acquired a majority stake in Wimpy.[8]

In July 2009, Famous Brands acquired Mugg & Bean.[9]

In September 2016, Famous Brands acquired Gourmet Burger Kitchen in the United Kingdom from Capricorn Ventures for £120 million.[10] In October 2020, Gourmet Burger Kitchen was sold to Boparan Restaurant Group for an undisclosed sum.[11]

Operations

Famous Brands' operations comprise 4 pillars - restaurants, manufacturing, logistics, and retail. As of 2025, the group operated 9 logistics sites, 11 manufacturing facilities, and sold a total of 188 products.[3]

As per the group's February 2025 financial statements, it had 2,979 restaurants in 30 countries. Of these, 2,626 were located in South Africa. A further 224 were located throughout the SADC, 68 across the rest of Africa and the Middle East, and 61 in the United Kingdom.[1]

As of mid-2025, Famous Brands owned and operated the following restaurant chains in its mainstream category:[12]

The group operates numerous small, upmarket chains under its Signature Brands portfolio, including Lupa, Mythos, Paul, Salsa Mexican Grill, Turn ‘n Tender, Vovo Telo, and House of Coffees.[12]

• Debonairs Pizza (868 locations)
• Steers (735 locations)
• Wimpy (539 locations)
• Mugg & Bean (322 locations)
• Fishaways (242 locations)
• Milky Lane (132 locations)
• Signature Brands (122 locations)
• Mr Bigg's (13 locations)
• Other (6 locations)

Sustainability

In 2022, Famous Brands met its goal of sourcing 100% cage-free eggs across all of its products and locations.[13]

External links

• Official website