Uncle Sam's founders hang up aprons after 55 years as Brighton burger business is sold

End of an era for Brighton institution

The founders of Uncle Sam's have sold the burger business after more than five decades, marking the end of an chapter for one of Brighton's best-known takeaways. Neal Tomlinson is stepping down from the industry as he prepares to turn 80, along with his brothers Paul and Ian who have managed the Montpelier Road branch, the first Uncle Sam's.

The business started in 1971 in a small Brighton takeaway and grew to 13 restaurants across the south coast using a franchise model. The original Montpelier Road location will close, with the business relocating to larger premises at Richmond Place. Paul and Neal explained: "The shop is going on, it's just the location is changing. This is too small for modern economics."

Neal came to Brighton in 1970 after a visit to the United States, where he had an American hamburger for the first time. He said: "I was in America and had an American hamburger in someone's garden. I thought, this is fantastic. I've never had one of these before. I could make a business out of this."

When the first Uncle Sam's opened, rent was just £5 a week and burgers sold for 19p. Paul said the business expanded after customers asked for seating, leading to a restaurant opening in Kemp Town.

Navigating 55 years in business

The business survived significant challenges over the decades, including changing consumer tastes, economic downturns and the Covid pandemic. During lockdowns, the original branch remained open by serving customers through its window. Paul said: "Business went through the roof because people couldn't get food from anywhere else."

Protecting jobs was a key condition of the sale. Neal said: "The staff and franchisees have been with us for decades. We can't just pull the rug out from underneath them." The family rejected an earlier buyer because they were not convinced staff would be properly looked after, eventually choosing experienced new owners who plan to expand the business.

As he prepares to retire, Neal was clear about his plans. Asked whether he would stay involved, he said: "No way. Definitely. Been there, done that."

Neal thanked the staff and customers who supported the business. "A great massive thank you to all the staff and all the customers, they've kept us going for all these years," he said. Paul added: "We've relied on repeat customers. These are all locals. Thank you very much."

Source: read the full story