Belinda Remarczyk led Starbucks’ UK licensed store programme for ten years and will be responsible for advancing Paris Baguette UK’s franchise strategy following the launch of its first licensed store in November 2024
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A Paris Baguette store at Battersea Power Station, London | Photo credit: SPC Group
South Korean bakery-café chain Paris Baguette has appointed Belinda Remarczyk as UK Franchise Director.
Remarczyk joins Paris Baguette just over a month after the company opened its first UK franchised store in London’s Canary Wharf and will now lead its franchise strategy in the UK, where it currently operates three stores.
In June 2023, Paris Baguette outlined plans to reach 200 UK stores via franchise partnerships by 2036 as part of a wider goal of opening 450 sites across Europe.
“Belinda will play a pivotal role in driving Paris Baguette’s franchise growth and success. Her dedication to fostering strong relationships and her passion for strategic growth make her the perfect fit for this role. We are excited to see the positive impact she will bring as we continue to expand our footprint in the UK,” said Nico Gaillot, Managing Director, Paris Baguette UK.
Remarczyk brings significant coffee shop franchising experience to the role, having joined Starbucks in 1998, when the chain opened its first European store in London. She was appointed Head of Licensing in 2004 and led the design of the US coffee giant’s licensed store programme in the UK. She also played a key role in developing Starbucks’ franchising model in the Netherlands and Denmark.
Following a short spell as Head of Franchise Development at Paul UK, Remarczyk joined US fast-food chain Wendy’s as Head of European Franchise Recruiting in 2021– a position she held until December 2024.