GDK: German Doner Kebab – Successful Project Management Case Study – Peterborough & Cambridge

Contract Description

GDK is a fast-casual dining brand known for its rapid UK expansion and distinctive design identity.

The Peterborough and Cambridge sites formed part of the brand’s national rollout programme, requiring close coordination to meet both landlord and franchise standards.

Appointed by the Franchise, we worked to coordinate and manage both projects from design, through procurement and fitout to completion.

Our Project Management Activities

Iconic Project Management provided full project management services for the delivery of two new German Doner Kebab (GDK) restaurants in Peterborough and Cambridge.

Our role encompassed oversight of the design, statutory compliance, and construction phases, ensuring alignment with both landlord and GDK brand standards.

Activities included:

• Managing landlord and tenant approvals, including design coordination, building control, and utilities connections.

• Overseeing the fitout programme, coordinating between the client’s appointed contractor, design consultants, and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Team (MEP) team.

• Monitoring site progress, quality, and compliance, including fire strategy, health & safety, and warranty requirements.

• Supporting resolution of technical queries and site constraints, including services coordination and signage approvals.

• Facilitating handover and ensuring completion documentation was collated, reviewed, and issued to the client.

The Challenges

The project presented a number of coordination and delivery challenges typical of fast-track retail fit-outs:

Contractor Management: The appointed contractor required close supervision throughout the project. Managing programme adherence, sequencing, and quality standards demanded proactive communication and firm oversight to maintain progress and resolve on-site issues efficiently.

Multiple Sub-Contractor Interfaces: Coordination across a large team of more than ten subcontractors proved complex, particularly given overlapping scopes between MEP, kitchen installation, and finishes trades. Regular progress meetings and clear task allocation were essential to maintain alignment and prevent delays.

Site Measurement Discrepancies: As-built site conditions did not fully align with the issued drawings, leading to challenges in setting out key kitchen and service elements. These discrepancies required prompt coordination between the design and site teams to agree practical solutions.

In Summary: Successful Project Management

Despite numerous challenges, the project was completed on time and with minimal contract changes. This outcome underscores the impact of successful project management, where careful planning and clear communication keep complex projects on track and aligned with objectives.

Structured coordination and strong collaboration among all stakeholders were key to this success. Regular updates, proactive problem-solving, and transparency ensured everyone stayed aligned, turning a challenging project into a smooth and timely achievement.

If this project interested you, why not check out some of our other work, such as the fit-outs we did for Poke House.

Author

Rachel Hounsell Roberts

Rachel is a Project Manager with experience delivering residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. Involved in refurbishments, multi-unit development management, and fitouts for both clients and developers. Capable in Contract Administration, tendering, procurement, and stakeholder coordination across the full project lifecycle.

Rachel is known for a proactive, organised approach and clear communication, with a strong focus on collaboration and practical outcomes.