Two once-beloved names in South Africa’s fast-food landscape are stepping back into the spotlight, as Scooters Pizza and Bimbo’s roll out new outlets across the country.

Both brands, which previously faded amid fierce competition in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector, are being revived by franchise entrepreneur Juan Engelbrecht, who is betting on nostalgia and smart expansion to win over a new generation of customers.

Scooters Pizza, originally launched in 2000, built its reputation on a bold promise: deliver within 39 minutes or the order was free. The brand saw rapid growth, reaching around 100 locations by 2010. However, its trajectory shifted when parent company Taste Holdings pivoted to rolling out Domino’s Pizza in South Africa, converting Scooters outlets in the process.

The move ultimately led to Scooters’ disappearance, while Domino’s itself struggled locally. By March 2020, Taste Holdings had exited the food business, shutting down 55 outlets.

Now, the brand is back. Engelbrecht relaunched Scooters in 2025, with its first new outlet opening in Melville, Johannesburg. The response has been strong, with over 1,000 franchise enquiries reported since its return. New locations are planned across Gauteng, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape, including Cape Town suburbs such as Durbanville, Paarl, N1 City and Kenilworth.

Alongside Scooters, Engelbrecht is also reviving Bimbo’s a brand that dates back to 1970 and was once known for its burgers, chicken, and 24-hour service culture.

Bimbo’s expanded significantly before being partially acquired by Famous Brands in 2005, which converted many locations into other franchises like Steers and Wimpy. The remaining brand presence gradually declined over time.

With a new outlet opening in Pretoria and more planned, Engelbrecht is aiming to bring Bimbo’s back into the mainstream.

If the early momentum is anything to go by, these returning brands may be ready for a second serving in South Africa’s competitive fast-food market.