Baguette Express, the chain that makes the Britain’s tastiest snacks, is serving up a summertime treat with the opening of a brand new outlet in busy Deanhaugh Street, between the bustling Edinburgh neighbourhoods of Stockbridge and Comely Bank.

The bright new store, near the Water of Leith, will serve up Baguette Express’s fantastic range of delicious, healthy and freshly-prepared sandwiches and snacks to both locals and visitors to nearby attractions such as the Royal Botanic Gardens.

The opening, which takes place on Friday, July 24, is the latest in a rapid expansion for the company, which celebrated its 10th anniversary this year. The franchise now has 55 popular and busy stores in Scotland and England and is on target for a total of 70 by the end of 2009.

Baguette Express is the brainchild of Scots entrepreneurs Robin and Billy Stenhouse, who established it in a single shop in 1999 to provide an alternative approach to the world of healthy snacking.

Based in Haddington, East Lothian, the enormously successful franchise is now operating in the same commercial arena as national chains such as Greggs and O’Brien’s. With around 10 people to a shop, the franchise employs 500 people, rising to 700 by December. Turnover this year will be £15m.

The company has recently put in place a master franchisee contract in the North East of England which is expected to lead to the opening in the region of up to 50 more stores. Another master franchisee operation is planned for London.

Billy Stenhouse said: “The brand is becoming a clearly recognisable part of the UK’s towns and cities and we are very pleased with our presence in Deanhaugh Street, which is at the heart of a busy and vibrant part of Edinburgh.

“We are confident that people in Stockbridge and Comely Bank will welcome our approach to healthy snacking, which combines the best fresh ingredients with excellent value for money.”

Nigel Longden, who has won the franchise for Deanhaugh Street, said: “Baguette Express is a fantastic brand and I am sure it will be greatly welcomed in this thriving part of the capital. I am delighted to be able to contribute to bringing in a business of this calibre to the area.”