Celebrations as Wimpy returns to Orpington High Street

Wimpy has returned to Orpington High Street after a gap of more than 35 years.

The much-loved British brand was lost to the town in 1983 when the previous Wimpy closed down, but franchisees Nico and Florenc Sokoli believe the time was right for its return.

The new business, which will be open seven days a week, brings at least seven new jobs to the town.

“We’re thrilled and delighted to have brought Wimpy back to Orpington,” said Nico who, as an experienced chef and manager, is running the new restaurant. He and his business partner Florenc already own and operate two other Wimpys in Welling and Strood.

“When we spotted the chance to takeover this premises and revamp it completely, it was too good an opportunity to miss. We know that Wimpy was really popular here and I can’t wait to welcome both new and old generations of Wimpy lovers back.”

The new restaurant, just a few doors down from the location of the previous Wimpy, seats some 70 diners and features Wimpy’s smart new SHIFT interior design, with bright colours and new décor featuring the heritage brand.

Among other improvements are USB charging points in the new booth seating areas and the introduction of a new till system to speed up ordering times.

Wimpy Orpington will also be operating a new home delivery service, working with JustEat, Uber Eats and Deliveroo.

Simon Noble, Wimpy UK’s operations manager, said: “The whole Wimpy team is delighted to see Wimpy Orpington preparing to open again. Nico and Florenc have done a terrific job and I have no doubt that their experience and knowledge of the business through their work at their other successful Wimpys will stand them in good stead as they bring the Wimpy name back to town.”