Big Licks: The UK Dessert Brand Making Global Noise




Introduction
From the sweet streets of Glasgow to the buzzing food corridors of Manchester, Big Licks has carved a name for itself as one of the UK’s most innovative dessert and burger brands. Now, with the support of Gulf Franchise Group, Big Licks is ready to take on the Middle East, Africa, and India - markets where indulgent dining and experiential foodservice continue to thrive.
A Brand Born from Passion and Playfulness
Established in 2008, Big Licks began as a small take-out in Glasgow. The vision was clear: combine top-quality ingredients, a fun and vibrant atmosphere, and a menu that delivers both comfort and surprise. Over the years, Big Licks has become known for pushing boundaries, especially in the dessert space.
Its signature offerings include handmade artisanal gelato crafted daily in-store, exclusive brownies and cookie doughs, and an insane lineup of shakes - all created with proprietary recipes and a touch of irreverent flair.
But Big Licks didn’t stop at sweets.
The Burger Evolution
With customer demand growing, Big Licks entered the gourmet burger scene - and made waves again. Their Angus smash burgers are made with halal, grass-fed, locally sourced beef, served in black charcoal buns, and paired with in-house sauces. From spicy chicken to buffalo blue cheese burgers, the savory side of the menu quickly gained a cult following.
Manchester Flagship: A Blueprint for Global Expansion
In 2023, Big Licks opened a 120- seat restaurant in Manchester’s Deansgate. Featuring plush booths, mirrors, LED lighting, and a modern urban aesthetic, the space became a social hub. A full production kitchen ensures daily- fresh menu execution, a hallmark of the brand’s quality standards.
This flagship store serves as the operational prototype for international franchising. The experience is both scalable and replicable - critical for multi- unit growth.
Franchise Opportunity with GFG
Partnering with Gulf Franchise Group marks a new phase in Big Licks' journey. GFG brings decades of franchising expertise and a network of qualified investors across the MENA region. The Big Licks franchise model offers:
- A unique product offering with exclusive formulations
- A dynamic brand with high visual and social media appeal
- Full training, marketing, and operational support
- Growth potential across multiple dayparts (desserts, dining, beverages)
Conclusion
Big Licks is not just a dessert shop - it’s a food lifestyle brand with a sense of humour, a deep commitment to quality, and a customer- first ethos. As it prepares to expand globally, the brand brings with it not only delicious food, but also the heart, hustle, and vision that made it a household name in the UK.
For those seeking an exciting and proven franchise opportunity, Big Licks offers the perfect mix of creativity, operational excellence, and support.

