US based “Brainy n Bright” EdTech center plans massive franchise expansion

- August 12, 2023

Brainy n Bright EdTech Centre in New Jersey, USA  Brainy n Bright, a prominent global STEM institution, has unveiled its ambitious expansion strategy, poised to extend its footprint across the Americas, Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asian regions. In an era where digital literacy is paramount, the institution is making significant strides to meet the increasing demand for early-age tech education. As children grow up with technology at their fingertips, the call for digital literacy education continues to surge worldwide. Brainy n Bright recognizes this imperative need and is committed to offering a comprehensive digital knowledge and skill development program. This mission has proven increasingly crucial as traditional education systems struggle to fulfill this growing requirement. Dr. Aamir Rizwan, Chief Strategy Officer “Brainy N Bright” EdTech Center ,USA At Brainy n Bright, children are provided a unique opportunity to learn coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, 3D Designing, Graphics Design, Animation, and other digital literacy in an engaging and enjoyable environment outside the confines of a conventional classroom. The institution’s innovative approach focuses on nurturing tech skills while fostering a sense of fun and creativity. Brainy n Bright’s efforts have swiftly propelled it to become one of the most rapidly expanding franchise networks in the EdTech sector, specializing in Coding, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digital literacy for children and adolescents. Founder of Brainy n Bright, Dr. Aamir Rizwan, emphasizes the institution’s foresight in recognizing the significance of Robotics and AI as essential skills for the future. “We were among the first to realize that very soon, Robotics and AI would be the most important skills of the future,” notes Dr. Aamir Rizwan. The institution has been experiencing rapid growth, with a presence on three continents and over 20 branches, including networks within schools and colleges. Over the past three years, the company has successfully expanded from 5 to 20 centers, serving more than 100,000 children who have embraced Robotics, AI, and digital literacy. Dr. Aamir Rizwan shares his focus on spearheading the launch of a groundbreaking global robotics competition and various innovative EdTech products. Simultaneously, Brainy n Bright aims to expand its operations in the USA, GCC, and India targeting 100 centers in next 3 years . This strategic expansion is intended to extend access to quality STEM education to a wider student base. To support these ambitious plans, Brainy n Bright is actively seeking franchisees and investors worldwide who share the institution’s passion for education and innovation. The EdTech industry is a thriving sector within the $33-billion-dollar education market, and Brainy n Bright has seized the opportunities it presents. Through a blend of education and entertainment, Brainy n Bright has ingeniously addressed the surging international demand for digital skills and coding proficiency. With its innovative educational program, dynamic teaching methodology, and a robust franchise concept, Brainy n Bright has solidified its position as a leader in the EdTech realm. The institution’s franchise model empowers partners with a diverse range of revenue streams, including courses, camps, workshops, and online instruction. Furthermore, Brainy n Bright swiftly adapted to the challenges of the pandemic, with its already in place online portal within a week to ensure continued learning opportunities for its partners and students. With a self-developed franchise management and administration system, a dedicated trainer portal, and a commitment to ongoing support, Brainy n Bright equips franchisees with the tools needed for success. The institution’s unique educational platform, engaging teaching methods, and international recognition position it for continued growth and influence in the field of STEM education. Brainy n Bright’s relentless commitment to providing a unique and customizable curriculum has earned it recognition as the premier global STEM institution. Garnering awards such as the Best Global STEM Institution in 2021 and 2022, the institution’s achievements extend to victories in international robotics competitions. These accomplishments further highlight Brainy n Bright’s dedication to nurturing future tech leaders. Beginning with colorful digital building blocks that teach the basics of programming through hands-on creation, Brainy n Bright seamlessly guides students towards real programming languages. By offering a customizable system tailored to different age groups and abilities, Brainy n Bright ensures an adaptable and enriching learning experience. Community engagements of Brainy and Bright Includes : New Jersey STEM Months, Abu Dhabi Events & part of UAE Summer camp under National Program for Artificial Intelligence, Dubai Expo 2020. Brainy N Bright has   delivered more than 1 million of learning hours with catering students for 30+ countries.  Our onsite classes present in 3 countries USA, UAE and India and continuously expanding. In a world where strong digital skills are imperative, Brainy n Bright remains dedicated to equipping children with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy. Through a blend of innovation and entertainment, Brainy n Bright empowers students to create their own computer games while gaining essential digital literacy and robotic skills. With nearly hundreds of  smart lesson plans designed to accommodate different learning speeds and age groups, Brainy n Bright’s enthusiastic trainers lead inspiring sessions both in physical spaces resembling IT offices and through online platforms. Students emerge equipped with vital future-ready skills, including problem-solving, logical thinking, creativity, and resilience.

UAE-Based Burger Chain “Pickl” Eyes Global Expansion, Aims for 200 New Outlets Worldwide

- August 12, 2023

Pickl outlet at JBR, Dubai Pickl, a renowned burger chain hailing from the UAE, is embarking on an ambitious journey of global growth with plans to establish 200 new outlets on an international scale. The home-grown brand is also eyeing an entry into the Saudi Arabian market within the next 12 months, while charting a course to open 50 additional locations across the GCC over the course of the next five years. In an exciting recent development, Pickl unveiled its intention to debut its first Qatari location in the fourth quarter of 2023. This strategic move is the result of a collaboration with Golondrina Hospitality. Furthermore, Pickl has two more outlets in the pipeline, with plans to launch them over the next three years. The brand’s expansion vision extends to Saudi Arabia, with a targeted entry into this market within the upcoming year. The focus is set on key cities that align with the company’s ambitions for GCC growth. Ash Griffiths, Chief Commercial Officer of Pickl Ash Griffiths, Chief Commercial Officer of Pickl, expressed great enthusiasm for the brand’s forthcoming expansion. Griffiths stated, “We’re thrilled to introduce the Pickl brand to Saudi Arabia in the coming year, and Riyadh will have the privilege of hosting the first outlet for Saudi customers to savor our award-winning burgers and chicken sandwiches. The potential for growth in the Kingdom is substantial, and we’re also setting our sights on Jeddah and the eastern provinces.” Founded by CEO Steve Flawith in 2019, Pickl has rapidly expanded its presence to include 15 outlets throughout the UAE. Notably, the brand’s female-led branch opened its doors in Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) residential community in July. In the preceding year, Pickl took its first steps onto the international stage with the launch of its Bahrain location. The brand later became part of the Yolk Brands portfolio earlier this year. Steve Flawith : Founder and CEO of Pickl Pickl’s growth strategy has been markedly accelerated through strategic franchise partnerships. Griffiths emphasized that these partnerships are a critical element in the brand’s journey towards its goal of reaching 200 Pickl locations by 2027. He emphasized, “Franchise partners must share our vision and ambition in propelling Pickl to attain global brand recognition with consistent international standards, regardless of the location. A solid history of managing franchises plays a pivotal role in forming these partnerships, alongside the capacity to realize mutually agreed-upon store rollouts within specified timeframes.” In the backdrop of these expansion initiatives, data presented at the Arab Franchise Expo in Dubai last year underscored the robust growth of franchising as a non-oil sector in the Middle East. With a market value exceeding $30 billion and a steady annual growth rate of 27%, franchising has positioned itself as a dynamic force in the region, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a prominent leader. Source: Zawya

Barns Coffee,” a Saudi-based halal café chain, extends its presence to New York City.

- August 3, 2023

Brewing Bigger: Mohamed Al Zain, CEO of the Barns Café chain Saudi-based halal coffee chain, Barns Coffee, has set its sights on the US market, particularly in New York City, with an ambitious expansion plan. Despite a slowdown in the industry, Barns Coffee plans to open its first outlet in Manhattan by the first quarter of next year. The CEO of the chain, Mohamed Al Zain, expressed enthusiasm about the aggressive  growth in the US, keeping pace with the company’s international expansion. He believes that the timing is favorable for Barns Café to establish a presence in Manhattan, with the first outlet set to open in the iconic Times Square. Mr Sami Mansour Qutub ,Vice president Human Capital and Shared services, Barns Coffee and Mr.Noushad Dawood Founder and CEO of Urban Trade international at the MOU signing in Dubai To facilitate their entry into the New York market, Barns Coffee signed a memorandum of understanding with Urban Trade International, based in Abu Dhabi, for development to the US markets. Mr. Noushad Dawood, the Managing Director of Urban Trade  International, pointed out the potential of the growing halal market in the USA and expects to roll out more outlets in NYC in the coming years. Barns Coffee outlet, Jeddah Airport , Saudi Arabia “The potential for a halal coffee chain in New York City is significant. With its diverse population and a growing interest in unique and culturally diverse culinary experiences, the city offers an ideal market for such a concept. Barns halal coffee chain can cater to Muslim consumers seeking coffee options that adhere to their dietary and religious requirements, while also appealing to a broader audience interested in exploring new flavors and cultural influences”.said Sami Mansour Qutub ,Vice president of Human Capital and shared services of Al Amjaad group during the signing of MOU in Dubai . “ New York’s vibrant and fast-paced lifestyle provides an excellent opportunity for a halal coffee chain to thrive. Offering quality coffee, innovative beverages, and a welcoming atmosphere, such a chain could attract both locals and tourists, establishing a loyal customer base. Additionally, New York City is known for its coffee culture, with residents and visitors alike seeking out coffee shops as social hubs and places to work or relax. Barns will capitalize on this coffee culture while introducing a unique touch that sets it apart from other establishments.” Said Sultan Al Mutlaq Manager of franchising at Al Amjaad Group. While the coffee industry has numerous players, experts still see opportunities for growth in the beverage category. A recent poll revealed that 62 percent of New Yorkers consume coffee daily, with 60 percent of those coffee drinkers having more than one cup per day. Revenue in the Coffee market amounts to US$11.00bn in 2023. The market is expected to grow annually by 3.21% (CAGR 2023-2028). Sultan Al Mutlaq ,Manager of Franchising at Barns coffee, Mr.Noushad Dawood Founder and CEO of Urban Trade international,Abudhabi , Mr. Sami Mansour Qutub ,Vice president Human Capital and Shared services, Barns Coffee(Left to Right ) at the signing function of New York Expansion in Dubai          New York City is a top tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year from around the world. A halal cafe can cater to Muslim travelers seeking familiar and authentic food options while exploring the city.With its strong  presence and a focus on the halal market, Barns Coffee is optimistic about its prospects in New York City and is ready to cater to the diverse tastes of coffee lovers in the bustling metropolis. Saudi Arabian Jeddah based Al-Amjaad Group is renowned for its successful coffee business, barn’s, which was established in 1992 as a homegrown specialty coffee brand. With a progressive company culture, barn’s has become the largest and one of the oldest coffee shop businesses in Saudi Arabia. Al-Amjaad has adopted a franchising model to expand the reach of barn’s while maintaining full ownership of approximately 30 percent of its branches. This strategy has proven effective, with the number of barn’s branches growing from around 130 in 2018 to over 550 today, including more than 150 fully owned by Al-Amjaad. Mohamed Al Zain CEO of Barns café, said: “It’s an exhilarating time to be the coffee shop leader in Saudi Arabia and we dedicate this our loyal customers .We’re proud of our 30-year legacy in Saudi Arabia and are energized by the opportunity to bring the Barns experience to new customers worldwide in the future by opening more outlets through franchising route with the aim of achieving 1000 outlets globally by 2030.

Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle Opens Poltrona Frau Dubai

- July 29, 2023

DUBAI, UAE:  Majid Al Futtaim, the leading retail, shopping mall, communities, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, has unveiled the newly designed Dubai store for Italian luxury furniture maker Poltrona Frau, with a grand opening celebration last night. The inauguration included some of the biggest names in design who were invited to experience the craftsmanship of Poltrona Frau firsthand, with a live demonstration by one of the brand’s skilled artisans, showcasing the manufacturing process of the iconic Chester Sofa. The Fumoir armchair, a treasured historical piece flown in from the Poltrona Frau Museum in Tolentino, was also showcased alongside the Archibald Limited Edition, a stunning collaboration with artist Felipe Pantone. This juxtaposition of past and present was placed to highlight the brand’s rich history and also commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing modern design. The grand opening offered guests an immersive experience, with four dedicated areas showcasing the history of the brand, its commitment to sustainability and Leathership® as well as the focus on craftsmanship and quality of materials. Roberto Lazzeroni, renowned Italian designer and a special guest for the event, also presented his collaboration with Poltrona Frau, which included a curated collection that was displayed at Milan’s Salone Del Mobile in April. The new 1,000 sqm store in Jumeirah was designed by Poltrona Frau in partnership with Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle and features a curated selection of historical and contemporary pieces such as the iconic Ouverture Sofa by Pierluigi Cerri and Souvenier D’Italie, the modern outdoor collection by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba. In addition, Ceccotti Collezioni, a Tuscan brand specialised in fine traditional cabinet-making techniques and part of Poltrona Frau since 2018, is featured in the new store with iconic pieces designed by Roberto Lazzeroni such as the iconic sofa D.R.D.P. and the Icolounge armchair. Commenting on the store launch, Fahed Ghanim, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, said: “As we celebrate the grand opening of Poltrona Frau in Dubai we are excited to offer our customers a rare glimpse into the world of Italian luxury furniture. With its expanded and reimagined space, the new store not only cements the brand’s position in the UAE market but also showcases the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that has made Poltrona Frau a timeless icon of luxury.” “Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle is proud to bring this unparalleled artisanal experience to our customers in just a few short months following our partnership launch with Poltrona Frau, while also planning for the second store opening set for Mall of the Emirates. This is a testament to our unwavering commitment to elevating the Poltrona Frau brand in the region and highlights the strength of Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle in delivering exceptional experiences for our customers.” The grand opening follows the partnership announcement between Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle and Poltrona Frau in January this year, and the company’s first entry into the Luxury Home category. Nicola Coropulis, Chief Executive Officer of Poltrona Frau said: “The elegantly redesigned Poltrona Frau Dubai space focuses on creating an unforgettable emotional bond with our customers and instilling a deep sense of fascination with our brand and its history. As a brand that represents the pinnacle of Italian luxury design, we are proud to partner with Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle to offer our customers in the UAE and the wider region a truly exceptional experience. With our focus on craftsmanship, quality, and heritage, Poltrona Frau is a natural fit for the region’s elite customers seeking exclusive solutions for their homes, offices and public spaces. We look forward to continuing our journey with Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle to establish Poltrona Frau as an ultimate luxury lifestyle furniture brand in the UAE and beyond.” Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle’s expansion has also been a remarkable success, complementing the group’s existing portfolio of eight leading franchise brands, two homegrown brands, and over 65 stores across the GCC, along with 18 online platforms. In 2022, the company achieved a record-breaking performance, with a 38% year-on-year increase in like-for-like revenue and over 20 store openings across the region. Looking ahead to 2023, Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle is set to continue its growth trajectory by opening another 15 stores across the region.

Shake Shack opens first international drive-thru in the Middle East

- July 29, 2023

A milestone in the company’s commitment to new operating formats Shake Shack, New York’s beloved burger stand, launches its first international drive-thru on 7th July in Dubai, UAE. The Shack in located in Al Barsha and will be open from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. The Al Barsha Shack features a digital menu board, two-lane ordering system, and a separate pickup window. Shack fans can order their Shack favourites at the drive-thru lanes or at the dine-in and take-out areas. Guests can look forward to shorter queue times.  John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group, said, “We’re really excited to bring the first Global Shake Shack drive-thru located outside the US to Dubai, building on our long-term partnership with Shake Shack to bring this new experience to our customers.  We are confident that the new state-of-the-art digital options for our customers to order their favourite burger will enable us to offer fantastic quality and a superior guest experience with the ultimate in convenience. We look forward to opening more Shake Shack drive-thrus across the MENA region.”  Since the launch of Shake Shack’s first drive-thru in Minnesota in 2021, Shake Shack has been continuing to deliver the uplifting experience and hospitality that Shake Shack is known for. Shake Shack has 17 drive-throes globally and has plans to open 25 by the end of 2023. 

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL accelerates international expansion through first-ever development agreement with alshaya group in middle east

- July 19, 2023

In partnership, Chipotle will open restaurants in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates in 2024 Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) announced it has signed its first-ever development agreement to open restaurants in the Middle East and accelerate its international expansion efforts. In partnership with leading international franchise retail operator Alshaya Group, the Company will initially open new restaurants in Dubai and Kuwait early next year be fore expanding further across the region. “Leveraging Alshaya’s market expertise will enable us to quickly gain access to these vibrant economies,” said Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol. “We are excited to offer guests in the Middle East our responsibly sourced, classically-cooked real food, and look forward to furthering our purpose to cultivate a better world in this new territory.” Mohammed Alshaya, Executive Chairman of Alshaya Group said: “In announcing this exclusive partnership across the Middle East, we are proud to be Chipotle’s first and only franchise partner, as we continue to enhance our portfolio by bringing world leading brands to our customers across our markets.” Chipotle’s existing international portfolio of owned and operated restaurants includes 34 locations in Canada; 15 in the United Kingdom with three more opening this summer; six locations in France; and two in Germany.  In North America, the Company currently owns and operates over 3,200 restaurants and is targeting 8 to 10% growth per year for the foreseeable future with at least 80% including a Chipotlane. Chipotle plans to open more than 255 new restaurants this year, with a long-term target of 7,000 locations in North America. Chipotle’s newly formed business development group, led by Chief Business Development Officer Nate Lawton, is exploring opportunities for growth via outside partnerships. With over 100,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. For more information or to place an order online, visit WWW.CHIPOTLE.COM. ABOUT ALSHAYA GROUP Alshaya Group is a dynamic family-owned enterprise, first established in Kuwait in 1890. With a consistent record of growth and innovation, Alshaya Group is one of the world’s leading brand franchise operators, offering an unparalleled choice of well-loved international brands to customers, Alshaya Group’s portfolio extends across MENA, Türkiye and Europe, with thousands of stores, cafes, restaurants and leisure destinations, as well as a large scale online and digital business. Mohammed Alshaya – Executive Chairman, Alshaya Group Operating in multiple sectors including Fashion, Food, Health & Beauty, Pharmacy, Home Furnishings and Leisure & Entertainment, Alshaya Group colleagues are united by a commitment to authentically deliver great customer service and brand experiences. Fresh, modern and relevant, Alshaya’s constantly evolving portfolio reflects the choices and lifestyle of its customers. From flagship stores and restaurants in prestige malls, through to local coffee shops, drive-thrus and online, Alshaya Group brings customers the brands they love in the places they want to be. Learn more about Alshaya Group at WWW.ALSHAYA.COM. SOURCE@ Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.

Saudi-based Halal café chain “Barns Coffee” inks Expansion to ASEAN Countries with Malaysia as its hub.

- July 8, 2023

Dubai:  Saudi based  world’s Largest Halal coffee chain, Barns Coffee  plans to Expand franchises in the ASEAN  countries, Barns Coffee , headquartered in Saudi, currently has over 600 locations and has announced plans to achieve 1000 outlets globally by 2030. Premier Fine Foods SDN BHD division of Harta Group , Malaysia  signed an MOU with Barns Coffee, Parent Company Al Amjaad Group , to develop and operate the new coffee shops in  Malaysia and other ASEAN countries. Dr Radzali Hassan , MD of Harta Group, Malaysia and Sultan Al Mutlaq, Head of Franchise of Barns Coffee,Saudi Arabia Premier fine foods plans to start 25 outlets in Kuala Lumpur as the Hub and expand  franchises to other ASEAN countries which includes Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos,  Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam in to achieve 300 outlets in next ten years. Premier Fine foods will make use of its existing network in Southeast Asia to support operation of the new businesses, which will have menus tailored to local tastes focused on business growth in the Asian consumer market. “We believe the potential of ASEAN market remains huge with the total population of all ASEAN states amounted to an estimated 666.19 million, and there has been an accelerated growth in the ASEAN coffee market showing its potentials for local and international café brands to continuously exploit. Said Dr. Radzali Hassan, Group Managing Director Malaysia based  Harta Group and Chairman of Malaysia Franchise Association. Founded in 1992 by the Al Amjaad Group, Barn’s currently operates more than 600 stores across Saudi Arabia.Barns believes in the eternal legacy of coffee, and the love and memories it brings up for coffee lovers. From roasted beans to a piping hot cup of coffee, freshly-baked savories to a range of customizable beverages – Barns has created and continues to innovate a unique coffee experience with local storefronts. We’re delighted to commemorate Barns 30-year journey in the region and International expansion with the expansion of our outlets to Asian Markets to achieve our goal of 1000 outlets by 2030. Our Association with Malaysia counterpart, Premier Fine foods SDN BHD will  strengthen our brand presence in the Asian markets,” said Mohamed Al Zain ,CEO of Al Amjad Group. The ASEAN countries isn’t the only international market seeing aggressive expansion from Barns. The chain recently signed for London expansion to target European markets. Coffee market in ASEAN Countries amounts to US$8.24bn in 2023. The market is expected to grow annually by 7.81% (CAGR 2023-2028). One notable trend in the coffee market is the growing demand for specialty coffee. Consumers are seeking unique and high-quality coffee experiences, exploring different flavor profiles, and appreciating the artistry and craftsmanship involved in coffee production. Mohamed AL Zain ,CEO- Barns Coffee (AL Amjaad Group),Saudi Arabia Coffee market in ASEAN Countries amounts to US$8.24bn in 2023. The market is expected to grow annually by 7.81% (CAGR 2023-2028). One notable trend in the coffee market is the growing demand for specialty coffee. Consumers are seeking unique and high-quality coffee experiences, exploring different flavor profiles, and appreciating the artistry and craftsmanship involved in coffee production.

Reflexion Lounge , UK’s Leading Shisha joint Eyes Global Expansion through Franchising

- June 18, 2023

Plans to expand to 100 outlets by 2030 in 15 countries United Kingdom:  Owned by a Manchester -based entrepreneur, Faiyaz Bux has announced global expansion of his hookah lounge, which will initially target the brand’s presence throughout the Gulf countries. The expansion plan will turn “RL” into the largest hookah chain brand in the world. In the last 9 years of operations, Reflexion Lounge has proven itself to be a highly innovative concept by combining hookah with a casual dining lounge experience. Plans are already in the works to set up the first international outlet in Dubai by the end of this year and it will then undergo further expansion across the GCC countries, moving on to the Pan Asian Markets thereafter he added. We also have affordable franchise models to accelerate the growth in innovative ways and are looking for likeminded partners across the Globe ” says Faiyaz. Faiyaz Bux ,Founder & CEO of Relfexion Lounge ,Manchester-UK Reflexion Lounge is based in Salford Quays Waterfront in Manchester, England. It is the only waterside shisha cafe in the UK. It is the only non alcoholic Meduse Smoking Cocktail Lounge in the World. RL has a worldwide following and has been operating for 9 years, building Brand recognition, servicing clients from 40 countries with GCC as its key client base. Along with this food and beverage setup, RL services the footballers of Manchester City, Manchester United & Liverpool as well many more Premier League Stars. It is known as Footballer Kingdom across the region. Brand Reflexion has a huge celebrity network and can bring its key connections on board for further collaborations. Brand Reflexion stands to challenge negative views of hookah lounges by providing an all-welcoming atmosphere through a VIP-Premium like experience. Reflexion Lounge has a selection of an unbelievable cocktail of flavours to choose from which primarily involve local Emirati Brands and Turkish Flair. The molasses used in it’s water pipes are 40 times weaker in nicotine than the average disposable e-cigarette on the market, making it negligible and close to zero in its concentration. In addition to shisha, a spread of traditional Arabic and regional food, fruit, snacks & delicious international mezze can be found in its menu. First originating in the 15th century India and later spreading to several Middle Eastern countries, Europe, Asia and North America, traditional hookah lounges are coffee houses that also serve hookah, a water pipe used to experience shisha (fruit flavoured non-tobacco) within a communal setting. During the Ottoman Empire, hookah was often used at diplomatic meetings and royal dinners, becoming a status symbol for notable people in society. Today, hookah culture has been increasingly adapted into Western culture as a social activity that brings groups of people — be it friends, family, or colleagues — together with a shared sense of belonging, joy and comfort. Reflexion Lounge at the Iconic Waterfront On Erie Basin 252 The Quays, Salford, Manchester,UK Reflexion Lounge at the Iconic Waterfront On Erie Basin 252 The Quays, Salford, Manchester,UK “The shisha trend continues to grow outside the traditional stronghold of the Middle East and retailers in Europe, Asia and the US are becoming more and more interested and receptive to the concept.” “While our special lines usually include new flavours, the new ‘Out of This World’ line includes some of the standard flavours but with an exotic twist, adding diversity and variety in the same flavour to capture all our consumer’s preferences”. Global Shisha Tobacco Market was valued at USD 882.54 million in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 1516.36 million by 2029, registering a CAGR of 7.00% during the forecast period of 2022-2029. Hookah business has become currently quite an attractive and even fashionable way of earnings. There are many people, who prefer a type of leisure by way of smoking hookah, and this segment of the market in many cities is still far from saturation and being highly-qualified. This gives good reasons to franchise our hookah lounge which can bring success in many cities. Reflexion personifies peace and tranquility, a hub for communities to bounce off ideas and enjoy the traditions of sharing and conversation, in a world full of chaos and with Mental Health issues at an all time high, it is absolutely a niche in the market that is yet to take the world by storm”, Faiyaz Concluded.

Subway to open 4,000 stores in China with new master franchise agreement

- June 17, 2023

Hong Kong:  As part of its new master franchise agreement with Shanghai Fu-Rui-Shi Corporate Development Co., Ltd. (FRS), sandwich restaurant Subway stated that it intends to open thousands of new locations in Mainland China within the next 20 years. Under the new organization, FRS will open almost 4,000 cafés in Central area China by 2043, developing Subways  ongoing impression in the market by in excess of multiple times. Additionally, the group will acquire exclusive management and development rights for all Mainland China Subway locations. According to the U.S. restaurant chain, the agreement, which was funded by a group of private investors, including Asia Investment Capital (AIC), is the largest master franchise agreement in Subway’s history and one of the largest in the QSR industry as a whole.  John Chidsey, The Global Chief Executive officer of Subway Additionally, the company will appoint a chief executive officer with extensive QSR market experience. John Chidsey, the global chief executive officer of Subway, stated, “This agreement is a significant milestone in Subway’s international growth strategy as we continue to focus on strategically expanding our footprint and maintaining our position as one of the world’s largest restaurant brands.” We are excited to bring the Subway experience to even more guests in China, which is a significant market with significant long-term growth potential. In the past two years, Subway has signed 13 master franchise and development agreements, with over 9,000 future restaurant commitments worldwide. In terms of the future, Subway stated that it intends to increase the number of its restaurants in the Asia-Pacific region by more than 6,000 to over 3,500 in the next five years.

Franchise International Malaysia 2023 to help Homegrown businesses go Global

- May 26, 2023

Deputy prime minister of Malaysia ,Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (centre) flanked by domestic trade and cost of living minister Salahuddin Ayub (left) and Malaysian Franchise Association chairman Dr.Radzali Hassan at the launch of Franchise International Malaysia 2023. KUALA LUMPUR:  Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on local franchise industry players to collaborate to promote their respective brands internationally. Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, said it was time for all industry players to join forces in marketing local products abroad, thus putting competition aside. “I am confident that if we mobilise our energy together to promote local brands to the international level, more Malaysian products will be better known abroad. “We should put all efforts in the name of the country and forget all racial and religious differences,” he said when launching the 2023 Franchise International Malaysia (FIM) Exhibition and Conference, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on Thursday (May 18). Also present were Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub and Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA) chairman Datuk Radzali Hassan.Ahmad Zahid said the government is also committed to promoting various local brands internationally, not only for food and beverages but also for various other products, such as pharmaceuticals, services and banking. Not only through grand-scale exhibitions but also whenever Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim makes an official visit abroad, he will take the Malaysian brands along,” he said. Meanwhile, Salahuddin said in order to find a solution for the franchise industry to bring Malaysian brands to the international level, a more comprehensive long-term plan will be drawn up by his ministry. “This definitely requires a more detailed management and action plan. Insya-Allah, I think that this year we will hold more engagement sessions (to draw up the long-term plan),” he said when met by reporters. The three-day Franchise International Malaysia 2023 (FIM2023) exhibition is set to propel Malaysian businesses to greater heights and expand their brands overseas. Organised by the domestic trade and cost of living ministry together with the Malaysian Franchise Association, FIM2023 is set to welcome 15,000 visitors to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from today until May 20. Themed “Rebuilding Growth, Spurring Excellence”, the exhibition is expected to bring in franchise investments of RM550 million. Aside from Malaysian businesses, franchises from the United States, Australia, Brunei, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, and Taiwan are also taking part in FIM 2023. Malaysian Franchise Association chairman Radzali Hassan said the event was organised to help local franchises connect with foreign investors. “FIM2023 is a conducive platform for all franchise entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs to interact and create a wider business network. “It is also the best platform for the community to explore job opportunities through franchising and consequently improve their standard of living,” he said during his welcome address. The three-day event will include conferences, franchise briefing sessions, edutainment activities and business-matching sessions between franchisors and potential investors. Deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who launched the exhibition said FIM2023 could bring together franchisors from around the world to share their experiences, ideas and knowledge to develop the Malaysian franchise industry. “I am confident that if we mobilise our energy to promote local brands to the international level, more Malaysian products will be better known abroad,” he said. He added that the future success of the Malaysian franchise business would depend, to a certain extent, on how well it could incorporate sustainable requirements such as innovation, efficiency, and wealth creation while navigating the challenges and opportunities for growth and stability. Also present was domestic trade and cost of living minister Salahuddin Ayub.At a press conference after the launch of FIM2023, Salahuddin said his ministry planned to bring more Malaysian brands overseas. “We (the ministry) believe in the potential of this (franchise) industry. In 2022, for example, it was valued at RM28 billion.“Franchises continue to contribute to the creation of entrepreneurs and SMEs, and we will help them with several initiatives that we will unveil in the near future.”