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IRMG’s great move: Kelly’s Cajun Grill expands its franchise into the MENA Region

ARAB WORLD / Food & Beverage / Franchise news / World
- September 10, 2023

Cajun Grill, Dubai Mall

 In 1987, International Restaurant Management Group (IRMG) began its journey in the culinary world with a single restaurant nestled in Miami, Florida. Over the years, IRMG rapidly emerged as a front-runner in the fast-food industry, distinguished by its inventive and captivating dining concepts.

Within its impressive portfolio, IRMG has cultivated numerous thriving brands, including Kelly’s Cajun Grill, Yeung’s Lotus Express, Suki Hana, Chicken Connection, Latin Grill, Tango Grill, and Gusto’s Pizza and Subs. Furthermore, as franchisees of Burger King and Popeye’s Louisiana Chicken, IRMG possesses the capability to embrace additional franchise opportunities.

With a presence spanning 29 states and seven countries, IRMG presently oversees more than 200 restaurants, encompassing company-owned establishments, franchises, and collaborative partnerships. The enduring legacy of IRMG is underscored by its exceptional track record and noteworthy achievements, rooted in an unwavering commitment to meticulous attention and unparalleled quality. The core values of customer satisfaction and delectable menus continue to lure patrons back time and again, cementing IRMG’s stellar reputation.

IRMG Head Quarters in Florida,USA

In the world of quick-service restaurants, Kelly’s Cajun Grill, a brand under the International Restaurant Management Group (IRMG), stands as an icon known for its tantalizing flavors, especially the World Famous Bourbon Chicken. With a humble beginning in 1991 in Sunrise, Florida, Kelly’s has grown into a global sensation and is now gearing up for an exciting new chapter in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

From a single store, Kelly’s Cajun Grill quickly outpaced all other IRMG concepts combined, earning a reputation for efficient operations that yield high sales volumes in compact spaces. Beyond their signature Bourbon Chicken, the menu boasts a mouthwatering array of options, including Blackened Chicken, Blackened Fish, Shrimp Etouffee, Cajun Spicy Chicken, and a variety of delightful side dishes.

In 2021, IRMG MENA embarked on an exciting endeavor, launching Kelly’s Cajun Grill in the MENA region with the grand opening of their inaugural restaurant at the prestigious Dubai Mall. Building on this achievement, they marked another significant milestone in 2022 by unveiling their second establishment in the iconic Mall of Emirates. Their success story further flourished with the swift establishment of three additional branches in Festival City Center and Deira City Center, cementing their prominent presence within Dubai’s vibrant culinary scene..

Mr. Faraz Shafi , Managing Director of Kelly's Cajun Grill.

In the vibrant landscape of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Mr. Faraz Shafi stands as the accomplished Managing Director of Kelly’s Cajun Grill. With a wealth of experience in the food service industry and a deep understanding of the region’s culinary preferences, Mr.Faraz has played a pivotal role in spearheading the brand’s expansion across MENA. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to delivering the authentic Cajun experience have been instrumental in making Kelly’s Cajun Grill a household name in the region. Under his guidance, the brand continues to thrive and set new standards in the dynamic MENA food industry.

Owning a Kelly’s Cajun Grill franchise is an accessible endeavor, with a competitive franchise fee of $30,000, offering access to the renowned Kelly’s brand. A modest annual fee equivalent to 5% of gross profit ensures franchisees can focus on delivering exceptional Cajun cuisine and building thriving businesses within IRMG’s dynamic network.

Kelly’s Cajun Grill’s journey in the United States included a deliberate approach to franchising, with 60 restaurants opening over four years to validate its success. Today, the brand boasts 125 restaurants across the globe, including franchisees such as industry giants HMS Host, Aramark, and Food Brand.

Cajun Grill, Dubai Festival City

Kelly’s Cajun Grill is just one gem in IRMG’s diverse portfolio of restaurant brands. IRMG takes pride in offering unique culinary concepts and atmospheres catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences, reflecting a deep understanding of culinary trends and consumer preferences.

The MENA out-of-home dining (OOHD) market is flourishing, with a 2022 value of $44.80 billion, projected to reach $81.82 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 10.66%. The dominance of full-service restaurants (FSR) and casual dining segments is expected due to rising disposable incomes among consumers.

As IRMG MENA continues to explore new horizons in the MENA and Africa regions, it remains a symbol of culinary excellence, setting high standards for the restaurant industry. Kelly’s Cajun Grill’s journey is a testament to ambition, perseverance, and a commitment to offering exceptional dining experiences, making it a prime franchise opportunity in the flourishing MENA region.

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