Bill’s, the Richard Caring-backed chain, has further strengthened its pipeline after securing sites in Watford and Welwyn Garden City.

The 41-strong group, which will open its latest site next week in Liverpool, has secured a vacant retail unit in the centre of Watford and the old Blockbuster site in Welwyn, subject to planning.

The company, which recently secured the Leon in Bluewater, is on track to open four sites in September, in Farnham, Cheltenham, Camberley and Battersea.

The group, which is set to reach the 50-site mark by the end of the year, recently secured its first site in Scotland, in Glasgow, and has further openings lined up in Woking and Newbury.

It is also thought to be eyeing opportunities in Leeds, Berkhamsted and Taunton.

Brandon Elmon acted on the Watford and Welwyn deals.