SFC re-launch reunites brothers with 'Undercover Boss'

The major upgrade of a Southern Fried Chicken (SFC) store in South Shields has seen the two shop owners and the national company’s managing director reunited after they appeared on Channel 4’s Undercover Boss last year.

Andrew Withers, managing director and owner of SFC, and brothers Azman and Amir Ali, SFC Express franchisees, have invested a total of £50,000 to completely refurbish the premises.

The Undercover Boss programme, which aired in July 2011, had Withers make secret visits to his company’s franchises throughout the country and highlighted some particular challenges at the Tyneside outlet.

Amir and Azman have been in business for 13 years together and have been running the Southern Fried Chicken takeaway since 1998.

Azman Ali said: “It has been an interesting process. We’ve worked closely with Mr Withers and the SFC head office to ensure that we are at the forefront of what the company as a whole is trying to achieve.

“We’re really pleased with the results, including a brand new shop front, redecoration throughout and tables with fixed seating.

“The new Southern Fried Chicken branding is really fresh and makes the shop look far more modern. My brother and I look forward to welcoming customers with great quality food.”

Andrew Withers added: “I could always see the potential in this site and this business and the fact we have been able to progress and work together has meant a lot to me personally. I thank them for their continued commitment and look forward to 2012 being a successful year.”