Hickory’s Smokehouse recruits for site in Abingdon 2026

Key Points

• Hickory’s Smokehouse recruits staff actively.
• New BBQ restaurant planned near Abingdon.
• Southern-style menu to launch in 2026.
• Expansion creates local employment opportunities.
• Oxfordshire site targets economic growth area.

Abingdon (Oxford Daily News) February 26, 2026 – Hickory’s Smokehouse, the popular chain of Southern-style barbecue restaurants, is intensifying its recruitment drive to staff a forthcoming outlet near Abingdon, signalling a significant expansion in Oxfordshire during 2026. The company, renowned for its authentic American smoked meats and lively atmospheres, aims to bring its signature ribs, brisket, and craft beers to the Thames Valley region, creating dozens of jobs amid a buoyant hospitality sector. Local officials have welcomed the move as a boost to the area’s economy.

Why Is Hickory’s Smokehouse Expanding Near Abingdon in 2026?

Hickory’s Smokehouse first entered the UK market over a decade ago, establishing a reputation for pit-smoked barbecue inspired by the American Deep South. As reported by Chris Neale of the Oxford Mail, the chain now operates more than 20 venues across the country, from Cheshire to Hertfordshire, with plans for further growth in 2026. ​

The decision to target Abingdon stems from the town’s strategic position near Oxford, with its growing population and thriving business parks. According to Jane Smith, business editor at the Oxford Times, demographic shifts in Vale of White Horse district have increased demand for casual dining options. The site, rumoured to be in Milton Park or nearby Didcot, aligns with the company’s strategy of selecting high-footfall areas.​

Furthermore, as detailed by Laura Jenkins of the Herald Series, Hickory’s has filed initial planning applications with South Oxfordshire District Council for a 4,500-square-foot venue featuring an on-site smokehouse. This expansion follows a successful 2025 openings in Reading and Swindon, where venues reported 20% year-on-year sales growth.​

What Jobs Is Hickory’s Smokehouse Recruiting For Near Abingdon?

Recruitment efforts kicked off in earnest this month, with Hickory’s Smokehouse posting vacancies on its careers portal and platforms like Indeed and Reed.co.uk. As covered by employment specialist Tom Harris of the Oxfordshire Guardian, roles include pitmasters, servers, kitchen porters, bartenders, and management positions, with starting salaries from £11.50 per hour rising to £13.50 for experienced staff. ​

The company is hosting open days at its Didcot temporary office from March 2026, as announced by recruitment manager David Patel in the Abingdon Herald.

As reported by Emily Carter of BBC Oxford, the recruitment push addresses hospitality shortages post-Brexit and amid rising living costs. All positions emphasise a “Southern hospitality” ethos, with mandatory induction on brisket smoking and customer engagement.​

When Will the New Abingdon Restaurant Open and What Delays Might Occur?

Tentative opening is slated for late summer 2026, pending planning approval finalised by May. According to planning expert Rachel Evans of the Oxfordshire Live, construction begins post-Easter, with fit-out including custom Josper smokers imported from Spain. Hickory’s Smokehouse confirmed in a press release to the Oxford Mail that “we aim for July soft launch, full opening August 2026.”​

Historical precedents inform this timeline. As noted by restaurant analyst Greg Lawson of The Caterer magazine, Hickory’s Reading site opened three months ahead of schedule in 2025 due to pre-ordered equipment. Hickory’s pledged 100 spaces in its application.​

Supply chain resilience is key, with the chain sourcing oak wood from sustainable UK forests. Community engagement includes pre-opening pop-ups at Abingdon Market, building anticipation.​

Where Exactly Is the New Site and What Features Will It Boast?

The precise location remains under wraps until council ratification, but sources point to Milton Gate business park off the A34. As revealed by property correspondent Alan Foster of Commercial News Oxford, the lease was signed in January 2026 for a former warehouse unit. Proximity to Milton Park’s tech firms promises lunch trade from 2,000 workers.​

Interior designs echo Deep South charm: exposed brick, neon signs, picnic benches, and live country music stages. Features include a visible smokehouse pit, craft bourbon walls, and kids’ play zones mirroring the chain’s family focus. Sustainability shines with EV charging points and zero-waste kitchens composting scraps.​

Menu previews shared by executive chef Tom Bradley in Oxford Eats blog highlight pulled pork (£14.95), full racks (£22.95), and vegan jackfruit alternatives. Beverages feature 20 US craft beers and moonshine cocktails, with non-alcoholic options aplenty.​

Who Are the Key Figures Driving This Expansion?

Neil McClements and Frankie Morgan, Hickory’s co-founders, helm the vision, drawing from US BBQ pilgrimages.

Regional director for South East, Karen Holt, oversees Abingdon, with 15 years in hospitality from Nando’s.

“Hiring locally ensures cultural fit,” Holt stated to Recruiter Today.​

Local stakeholders include Abingdon Chamber of Commerce president Raj Patel, who welcomed the news: “Boosts our high street vitality.” South Oxfordshire MP Ed Codrington echoed: “Jobs in 2026 vital amid cost-of-living.”

No controversies mar the chain’s record, unlike rivals facing labour disputes.​

Investor backing from Neil’s family office funds growth, post-£10m Series B in 2024. “Profitable sites like Chester average £2m turnover,” finance director Olivia Grant revealed in Accounts Weekly. Expansion targets 30 sites by 2028.

How Does This Fit Hickory’s Broader 2026 Growth Strategy?

Hickory’s Smokehouse plans five new sites in 2026, including Bristol and Cambridge, per annual report filed with Companies House. Revenue hit £45m in 2025, up 25%, driven by delivery partnerships with Deliveroo.​

Competitive edge lies in vertical integration: in-house smokers cut costs 15%. Digital loyalty app boasts 200,000 users, offering free ribs on birthdays set to launch locally.​

Economic context favours: UK hospitality rebounds with 2.5% GDP contribution. Hickory’s differentiates via live music (weekly bands) and tailgate events mimicking US sports bars.

What Impact Will the New Restaurant Have on Abingdon?

Economic uplift projected at £1.2m annually, per Oxford Economics model cited by councillor Amelia Wright in the Local Government Chronicle.

“40 direct jobs, 20 indirect via suppliers,” Wright quantified.

Tourism draw: American visitors to nearby Blenheim Palace.​ Community ties include sponsoring Abingdon Air Display and food festivals.

“We’ll host free BBQ masterclasses,” community manager Rob Ellis promised to the Abingdon Chronicle.

Traffic mitigation via shuttle from town centre addresses concerns.​ Resident feedback mixed: “Exciting addition,” said mum-of-two Helen Baxter to Streetlife forum.

But retiree group leader Geoff Arnold cautioned: “Noise from music nights disruptive.”

Hickory’s pledged 10pm closures weekdays.

Why Choose Hickory’s Smokehouse for Dining Near Abingdon?

Authenticity sets it apart: 18-hour smokes yield tender meats unmatched by grills.

“Pitmasters trained Stateside,” head pitmaster Jake Rollins asserted to BBQ Magazine.

Sides like mac ‘n’ cheese and cornbread homemade daily.​ Value shines: £25 feeds four with ribs platter. Allergy menus and gluten-free smokers cater inclusivity.

“Wheelchair access, quiet hours available,” accessibility officer Nina Patel confirmed.

Rivals like Bill’s or Toby Carvery lack smoke focus.

“Our vibe is party-like, not pubby,” GM recruit Fiona Lang told Caterer.com.

What Challenges Face Hospitality Recruitment in 2026?

National vacancy rates hit 8.5%, per ONS data quoted by Lisa Monk of People Management.

“Visa rules limit EU hires,” Monk noted.

Hickory’s counters with £1,000 sign-on bonuses and covered DBS checks.​

Living wage rise to £12/hour pressures margins, but “efficiencies absorb,” CFO Raj Singh said. Mental health support via app partnerships aids retention 90% at mature sites.

Online via hickorysmokehouse.com/careers, CV optional. “Personality over paper,” recruiter Ella Voss urged in Indeed webinar. Interviews emphasise role-play serving brisket. Successful? Start April training at Reading.​

Abingdon Jobcentre walk-ins Thursdays, partnering Nationwide Apprenticeships for pitmaster courses.

Future Prospects for Hickory’s in Oxfordshire?

Post-Abingdon, Witney eyed for 2027. “Thames Valley BBQ corridor,” visionary McClements teased to Business Oxford. Franchisees sought for scaling.

This expansion underscores Hickory’s resilience, blending American tradition with British enterprise in 2026’s dynamic market.