The evolving franchising model in the UAE is a boon for entrepreneurs.

- February 6, 2024

In the UAE and the wider Middle East region, franchising has traditionally been dominated by large conglomerates. These industry giants secured master franchise deals, facilitating the introduction of international brands into the local market. However, a new era is emerging, marked by the rising prominence of home-grown concepts. With an increasing demand for unique and authentic experiences, locally developed concepts are gaining traction and offering franchise opportunities. This transition not only benefits entrepreneurs and consumers but also contributes to economic growth and diversification. By extending franchising opportunities to individual operators, these emerging brands are forging a distinct path to success in the dynamic UAE market. The conventional franchise model often required significant investment and involvement from large corporations, limiting opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Home-grown concepts are revolutionizing this landscape by presenting a plug-and-play business model. This empowers individuals to become operators, leveraging the advantages of an established brand while minimizing the inherent risks of launching a new concept. The UAE and the Middle East are renowned for their rapidly evolving markets, making franchising an appealing option for those seeking alternative business ventures. Historically prevalent in the West, the owner-operator franchise model is gaining momentum in the Middle East, offering a plethora of opportunities for end-users. Entrepreneurs now have a diverse array of franchising options to choose from, tailored to their interests, expertise, and market demand. Home-grown franchises have emerged as a clear pathway to success in the ever-changing business landscape. Developed locally, these franchises offer numerous advantages that appeal to both entrepreneurs and investors alike.

Barns Cafe: A Saudi Coffee Success Story at the World of Coffee Dubai 2024

- January 22, 2024

Barns Café Show cased at World of Coffee – Dubai 2024 Saudi Arabia’s finest coffee brand,  Barns Cafe, have taken center stage at the prestigious World of Coffee Dubai, which commenced today. This event marks a significant moment in the global recognition of Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning coffee industry. World of Coffee Dubai, a renowned gathering for coffee aficionados and industry professionals worldwide, witnessed the exceptional presence of Barns Cafe. Barns cafe have not only showcased the rich heritage and unique flavors of Saudi coffee but also demonstrated the innovative spirit of Saudi Arabia’s coffee industry. Barns Cafe, known for its unique blend of traditional and modern brewing methods, has captured the attention of visitors with its exceptional taste and quality. ” Our goal is to share the unique taste of Saudi coffee with the world,” stated Abdulaziz  Ashour, The head of Public Relations at Barns Cafe. “World of Coffee Dubai is the perfect platform to showcase our commitment to excellence in coffee making. We’re proud to bring our traditional flavors and modern innovations to a global audience.” Saudi Arabian  coffee chain Barn’s has announced international expansion plans and is targeting 1,000 stores globally by 2030. Founded in 1992 by the Al Amjaad Group, Barn’s currently operates more than 650 stores across Saudi Arabia. The Barns Cafe Team, Led by Abdulaziz Ashour at World of coffee Dubai 2024 Throughout the event, attendees have the opportunity to experience the rich flavors of Saudi coffee, engage in coffee-tasting sessions, and witness live demonstrations of traditional Saudi coffee-making techniques. The participation of these brands highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global coffee market and its commitment to promoting its coffee heritage. Coffee tasting of Barns Café Stall at the World of coffee Dubai This event is not only a showcase of Saudi Arabia’s finest coffees but also an opportunity to foster international partnerships and exchange cultural and industry knowledge. Shouq Bin Redha, Exhibition Manager of World of Coffee Dubai 2024, said, “This global event will highlight the big growth and development of the UAE’s coffee industry as a whole, particularly in Dubai. Dubai’s hosting of this event is a testament to its pivotal role as a regional and global hub in this sector. participants who share the passion for coffee, and hope that the exhibition will provide attendees with exceptional experiences, interactive events, as well as opportunities for collaboration and networking.” Several leading companies and brands from around the world have participated in the  exhibition. Over 60 percent of these are companies and brands participating for the third time in a row, including those from Brazil, Colombia, France, Ethiopia, Greece, Turkey, Switzerland, Netherlands, Sweden, Spain, Romania, Singapore, Qatar, Panama, Oman, Mexico, South Korea, Jordan, Indonesia, India, Georgia, Denmark, Czech Republic, Bolivia, Belgium, Austria, China, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America, as well as Saudi Arabia.

By 2027, McDonald’s intends to open 50,000 more locations.

- January 17, 2024

Announces New Targets For Development, Loyalty Membership, And Cloud Technology Targeting 50,000 restaurants by 2027; ushering in fastest period of growth in brand’s history Expanding one of the world’s largest loyalty programs from 150 million to 250 million 90-day active users by 2027 Connecting thousands of restaurants worldwide with Google Cloud technology to improve operations and customer & crew experience, beginning in 2024 Chicago, USA:   Today McDonald’s Corporation announces ambitious new growth targets to advance its Accelerating the Arches strategy. “As I’ve said before, there has never been a better time to be part of Brand McDonald’s. The McDonald’s System has demonstrated exceptional execution of our Accelerating the Arches strategy and is delivering tremendous results across our key growth pillars,” said McDonald’s President and Chief Executive Officer Chris Kempczinski. “We have a clear trajectory for future growth as we continue to build on the brand strength, global footprint and digital ecosystem that have resulted in unparalleled competitive advantages and cemented McDonald’s as one of the world’s leading consumer-facing brands.” The Company continues to build relevance amongst customers through emotional connections and world class creative, which are central to the brand’s “Feel-Good Marketing” approach. Kantar recently named McDonald’s one of the world’s top five most valuable brands, driven by culturally relevant creativity that drives growth. It’s a recognition that speaks to the heart of McDonald’s iconic position as one of the world’s leading consumer-facing brands. The Raise Your Arches campaign demonstrated the brand’s efficiency and agility to create and scale award-winning campaigns that feed McDonald’s global fandom and inspire brand affinity. Originally developed in the U.K., the campaign was quickly picked up by more than 35 markets around the world. Another way in which McDonald’s connects with its customers is through personalized value and digital offers, like those available on the McDonald’s mobile app. McDonald’s is proud to be a destination of choice, and it continues to be recognized by customers with the number one position on Value and Affordability scores in the industry. Core menu items – like the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, Chicken McNuggets and World-Famous Fries – are truly the core of this business, representing about 65% of Systemwide sales and driving profitable growth. Seventeen classic McDonald’s menu items are billion-dollar brands in their own right, beloved by customers around the world. Building on its historic strength with burgers, the Company continues to evolve and innovate around its longest-standing menu item with plans to deploy the Best Burger initiative to nearly all markets by 2026. All while the Company gains share in the rapidly growing chicken category, which it has highlighted as a significant opportunity. Today, the size of the Company’s chicken business is on par with beef, as the Company continues to aggressively expand through billion-dollar equities including McNuggets, McChicken, McCrispy and McSpicy. This includes plans to offer McCrispy in nearly all markets around the world by the end of 2025 and to expand McCrispy into wraps and tenders. These planned innovations and new menu offerings reflect the Company’s ability to test and scale quickly to serve customers. Double Down on the 4Ds: Digital, Delivery, Drive Thru and Development Digital With 150 million 90-day active users and over $20 billion in Systemwide sales to loyalty members, McDonald’s loyalty program is one of the largest in the world. Still, the Company plans to increase its active loyalty user base to 250 million 90-day active users and deliver $45 billion in annual Systemwide sales to loyalty members by 2027. Mobile ordering is a popular and growing choice for customers, with hundreds of millions of mobile orders recorded during the third quarter of 2023. To ensure McDonald’s restaurant teams are able to deliver the speed, convenience and freshness customers expect when they place a mobile order, the Company will expand its U.S. pilot of Ready On Arrival across its top six markets by 2025. This initiative enables crew members to begin assembling a customer’s mobile order prior to their arrival at the restaurant to expedite service and elevate customer satisfaction. Delivery With a massive global footprint and unmatched proximity to customers, McDonald’s has the industry’s largest delivery program globally – with 55,000 orders prepared and delivered to customers at any given moment. Customers can order delivery within the McDonald’s mobile app in five of the Company’s top markets and the Company is scaling this capability, expecting 30% of delivery orders to originate in its mobile app by 2027. Drive Thru McDonald’s is the largest drive thru player worldwide, with more than 27,000 drive thru locations. A first mover in locking down the best locations at attractive prices, McDonald’s network provides unmatched scale and convenience for customers. This competitive advantage in drive thru also presents significant opportunities for growth. Enhancements, such as improving the physical layout of the drive thru with additional lanes, creates additional capacity, which improves speed and efficiency and ultimately leads to sales growth and strong returns. Development As the Company previously announced, it will accelerate the pace of restaurant openings to fully capture the increased demand being driven through the M-C-D growth pillars. Today the Company announced it will continue to build on its industry-leading development progress by targeting expansion to 50,000 restaurants by the end of 2027. This will mark the fastest period of growth in Company history, with an expected run rate of 1,000 gross openings across the U.S. and International Operated Markets in 2027. Advancing Tech-Driven Solutions The Company’s technology strategy aims to leverage scale and unlock greater speed and efficiency for customers, restaurant teams, and employees. Today, McDonald’s and Google Cloud announced a strategic partnership to connect the latest cloud technology and apply generative AI solutions across its restaurants worldwide. This will help accelerate automation innovation from equipment manufacturers and allow restaurant general managers to quickly spot and enact solutions to reduce business disruptions. Overall, this will also reduce complexity for crew and lead to customer benefits such as hotter, fresher food. “We’re focused on making AI more helpful for everyone,

Zalomi Refurbished Electronics Online Store Announces Major Expansion

- December 15, 2023

Noushad Rahman, CEO of Zalomi.com Apart from Zalomi E-Commerce platform, Black Arrow Group Plans 100 Physical Outlets for Refurbished Electronics across the GCC through Franchise route Dubai, UAE:   Zalomi electronics, a leading UAE-based Refurbished electronics company, has announced a significant expansion plan to establish 100 new outlets across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This ambitious venture focuses on providing high-quality, refurbished electronics, including laptops, mobile phones, and gaming solutions, catering to the growing demand for affordable and sustainable tech options. Zalomi Electronics a subsidiary brand under Black Arrow Group has established itself as a pioneer in the refurbished electronics market in the UAE. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, the company has consistently delivered exceptional products and services, earning a reputation as a trusted name in the technology industry. The expansion underscores Zalomi Electronics commitment to sustainability and affordability in the technology sector. By offering refurbished products, the company aims to reduce electronic waste and provide cost-effective solutions to consumers without compromising on quality or performance. Each outlet will feature a wide range of expertly refurbished electronics, ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of functionality and reliability. With a keen focus on customer satisfaction, Zalomi Electronics promises a unique shopping experience, offering warranty-backed products and exceptional after-sales service. “We are excited to embark on this journey of expansion throughout the GCC,” said Noushad Rahman , CEO of Zalomi Electronics. “Our mission is to provide high-quality, affordable, and environmentally-friendly electronics options to our customers. This expansion is not just about growing our footprint; it’s about making a positive impact on the environment and offering value to our customers.”Since 2021 we have delivered 100,000 laptops and other and its growing. We aim to Reach refurbishing of 1 Million electronic solutions by 2025” He Added The roll-out of the first 10 outlets will start by December 2023  and will be strategically located across key cities in the GCC, including Dubai, Jeddah ,Riyadh,Dammam,Doha, Muscat, Riyadh, Kuwait City, and more, making refurbished electronics more accessible to a broader audience. The rise in popularity of refurbished laptops can be ascribed to a number of things, including affordability, environmental concerns, technological improvements, warranties and dependability, as well as the market’s availability and diversity. The burgeoning popularity of refurbished laptops is primarily attributed to their cost-effectiveness, offering consumers the opportunity to access technology at a more affordable price point. However, the refurbished laptop market faces a significant challenge in overcoming consumer skepticism. This apprehension stems from concerns about the inconsistent quality and reliability of such devices. To demystify, the term ‘refurbished’ refers to laptops that have been meticulously restored or renovated to appear and function as if they were new. Zalomi Model Store, Dubai Importantly, the designation of a laptop as refurbished does not inherently imply a defect; often, these laptops are returned for refurbishment due to corporate policies, such as those of multinational corporations mandating the replacement of laptops after a standard three-year lease period. These computers, having undergone thorough repairs, testing, and restoration either by the original manufacturer or a certified third-party refurbisher, present a cost-effective alternative to new laptops with comparable specifications. Consequently, reconditioned laptops have become an increasingly favored choice among various entities, including rapidly expanding businesses, budget-conscious consumers, students, startups, BPOs, MSMEs, IT companies, and non-profit organizations in need of computer technology. Additionally, the growing market for refurbished laptops aligns with a heightened societal emphasis on environmental sustainability. Opting for refurbished products enables consumers to actively participate in reducing electronic waste. During the refurbishment process, components are repaired and updated, not only maintaining the laptop’s functionality but also positively impacting the environment. This process aids in conserving resources and diminishing greenhouse gas emissions, thereby extending the lifespan of existing computers. This reduction in the need for new manufacturing further underscores the environmental benefits of choosing refurbished laptops, making them an appealing choice for environmentally conscious consumers and organizations dedicated to sustainable practices.

The “Coffee Capital of the Middle East” is Saudi Arabia. Says Barns Coffee CEO Mohamed Al Zain

- December 14, 2023

Mohamed Al Zain, CEO of Barns Café,KSA Dubai:   In a bold and visionary statement, Mohamed Al Zain, the CEO of Barns Coffee, has stated Saudi Arabia as the “Coffee Capital of the Middle East.” This proclamation comes as a testament to the rapid evolution of coffee culture within the Kingdom, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for coffee enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Mohamedl Al Zain was addressing the Barns Café annual Franchise Meeting in Jeddah, marking a significant event that brought together franchisees from across the country. This two-day event was filled with engaging presentations, insightful panel discussions, notable guest speakers, and valuable networking opportunities, underscoring the brand’s commitment to its franchise system. The meeting commenced with an exclusive factory visit, offering franchisees a unique opportunity to delve into the coffee production process. This educational tour covered everything from roasting and grinding beans to packaging, highlighting the diverse range of coffee beans and their contribution to the myriad flavors and aromas that Barns Café is known for. Day two of the event was equally engaging, featuring discussions led by Barns’ Leadership team on the state of the company. Franchisees received comprehensive insights from department leaders who shared relevant data and initiatives making significant impacts. The agenda also included guest speakers addressing timely industry topics, fostering an environment of learning and growth. A major highlight of the meeting was the Barns Franchisee Awards ceremony, which celebrated outstanding franchise operators in various categories. These awards recognized the exceptional achievements and contributions of franchisees to the Barns Café brand, further motivating the entire network. The Awakening of Saudi Arabia’s Coffee Culture Over the past decade, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a remarkable awakening of its coffee culture. With an increasing number of specialty coffee shops, a burgeoning interest in artisanal coffee, and a growing community of coffee enthusiasts, the Kingdom has undeniably become a central player in the global coffee industry. According to Mr. Al Zain, this transformation can be attributed to several key factors, all of which have contributed to Saudi Arabia’s newfound status as the “Coffee Capital” of the Middle East.   Coffee in Saudi Culture: A Timeless Tradition One of the fundamental reasons behind this transformation is the deeply rooted appreciation for coffee within Saudi Arabian culture. Coffee has played an integral role in Saudi hospitality for centuries. The traditional Arabic coffee ritual, involving the preparation and serving of Arabic coffee, serves as a symbol of warmth, generosity, and tradition. It is an essential part of welcoming guests and forging connections, reflecting the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Arabian coffee, also known as “Gahwa,” is prepared by boiling ground coffee beans on the stove and adding some spices such as cloves and cardamom. It is served in a golden dallah (a traditional Arabian coffee pot) and poured into small handle-less cups. The host continues pouring the coffee as long as the guest desires. The Saudi people’s love for coffee is evident in their daily lives, from the familiar aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through homes to the bustling coffeehouses where friends and colleagues gather for conversations over a cup of the rich, aromatic brew. Coffee, in its various forms, has become a cherished aspect of Saudi culture, and this cultural connection has significantly contributed to the Kingdom’s emergence as a coffee powerhouse. Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), launched Saudi Coffee Company in May 2022 – which is investing $319 million over the next ten years to support the growth of the national coffee industry – from production to consumption. The government is especially focused on developing arabica coffee production in the southern Jazan region, aiming to boost annual yields from 800 to 2,500 tonnes. Coffee from Saudi Arabia shares similar attributes with the highly-regarded Yemeni coffee, which is located on the other side of the border. The Specialty Coffee Revolution A pivotal factor in Saudi Arabia’s rise as a coffee capital is the Specialty Coffee Revolution. The Kingdom has witnessed a surge in specialty coffee shops and roasteries, introducing a diverse range of flavors and brewing methods to coffee enthusiasts. These establishments focus on quality, sourcing premium coffee beans from around the world, and roasting them to perfection. The Specialty Coffee Revolution in Saudi Arabia has not only elevated the standards of coffee but has also attracted global attention. Coffee professionals and entrepreneurs from various corners of the world are increasingly drawn to the Kingdom, recognizing the immense potential and growing demand for exceptional coffee experiences. The Role of Barns Coffee Barns Coffee, a prominent player in the Saudi coffee industry, has been a catalyst in this coffee revolution. Founded on a commitment to providing premium coffee products and fostering a thriving coffee culture, Barns Coffee has played an instrumental role in reshaping the coffee landscape in Saudi Arabia. Under the visionary leadership of Mohamed Al Zain, CEO of Barns Coffee, the company has set high standards in coffee sourcing, roasting, and education. Barns Coffee’s dedication to sourcing the finest coffee beans from renowned coffee-growing regions, combined with its state-of-the-art roasting facilities, has positioned it as a leading name in the industry. Barns Coffee stands out not only for its exceptional coffee products but also for its commitment to educating the public about the art and science of coffee. The company conducts workshops, seminars, and events that aim to raise awareness about coffee quality, brewing techniques, and the overall coffee experience. Saudi Arabian Halal coffee chain Barn has announced international expansion plans and is targeting 1,000 stores globally by 2030. Founded in 1992 by the Al Amjaad Group, Barn’s currently operates more than 550 stores across Saudi Arabia.   The Jeddah-based company is planning to focus on drive-thru stores and smaller format sites, with initial international expansion likely to target fellow Middle East and Global markets. Al Amjaad Group CEO Mohamed Al-Zain also revealed that Barn’s would be planning to launch an initial public offering (IPO) this year, which would enable

Sultan Al Mutlaq of Barn’s café Wins The Prestigious “Franchise Manager Of The Year” Awards At The Arab Franchise Expo 2023 Dubai

- October 23, 2023

Sultan Al Mutlaq of Barns Cafe ,KSA receiving “Franchise Manager of the Yearr”award from Dr Eesa Mohammed Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai at Arab Franchise Awards ceremony, Dubai Dubai:  Conducted in tandem with the Arab Franchise Expo, the awards ceremony concluded recently in Dubai. Industry trailblazers gathered at the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 Grand Lounge to honor the leading franchise entrepreneurs of 2023. Dr. Eesa Mohammed Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai, delivered an insightful keynote speech emphasizing the significance of home-grown franchise brands and their transformative impact on local economies. Arab Franchise Awards held concurrently with Arab Franchise Expo event which concluded in Dubai recently, recognized the excellence in the franchise industry of the Arab world announced the winners of 2023. Franchise industry leaders filled the Iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 Grand Lounge to celebrate 2023’s top franchise entrepreneurs, leaders, and their legacy. The ceremony began with a keynote speech by the Chief Guest of the event Dr. Eesa Mohammed Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai – about the latest insights into the importance of home-grown franchise brands and how these trends can influence the local economy. Sultan Al Mutlaq, the  Head of Barns Café Franchise Program, has played a pivotal role in catalyzing the remarkable growth of the Barns Franchise network. His visionary approach, unwavering dedication, and strategic acumen have been instrumental in charting the course for Barns Café brand’s expansion. With his hard work and guidance, Brans  franchise program has flourished, attracting talented entrepreneurs and fostering a vibrant community of partners. Sultan Al Multlaq’s profound commitment to excellence continues to drive Barns franchise program’s success, and his relentless pursuit of innovation ensures that Barns Café remains at the forefront of the franchise industry. Franchise Manager of Barns café Sultan Al Mutlaq accepted the “Franchise manager of the Year ” award on behalf of Barns Café, presented by Dr. Eesa Mohammed Bastaki. “Sultan Al Mutlaq remarked receiving the Best Franchise Manager of the Year award at the Arab Franchise Expo 2023 is a momentous honor that I humbly accept with immense gratitude. This recognition stands as a testament to the collective efforts of our dedicated team and the unwavering support of our franchisees. It reaffirms our commitment to excellence in the franchise industry.”’ “I am truly privileged to work alongside such talented individuals who share a passion for our brand’s growth and success. This accolade will serve as a catalyst, motivating us to continue innovating, expanding, and providing exceptional opportunities to our franchise partners. With this award, we embark on a new chapter of even greater achievements and milestones in the world of franchising. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed to this success, and I look forward to the exciting journey ahead.” said Sultan is his award reception speech.

The epitome of leadership: Mohammed Al-Zain of Barns Café Honored as “CEO of the Year” at Arab Franchise Awards, Dubai 2023

- October 14, 2023

Mohammed Al-Zain , CEO of the Saudi-based Barns Cafe, received the esteemed “CEO of the Year” accolade Dubai, 2023 – The glitz and glamour of the Arab Franchise Awards witnessed another memorable moment this year as Mohammed Al-Zain , CEO of the Saudi-based Barns Cafe, received the esteemed “CEO of the Year” accolade. The award comes as a recognition of his unparalleled leadership, innovation, and the cafe’s remarkable growth under his stewardship. For those familiar with the franchise industry in the region, this honor bestowed upon Al Zain was a foreseeable conclusion. His strategic vision and relentless pursuit of excellence have transformed Barns Cafe from a local favorite to a significant player in the Middle Eastern cafe scene. The Arab Franchise Awards, renowned for celebrating outstanding achievements in franchising across the Arab nations, saw a convergence of industry leaders and influencers. Amidst this gathering, Al Zain’s triumph was a testament to his dedication, strategic acumen, and the ability to adapt to the evolving tastes and preferences of the market. Arab Franchise Awards 2023 held concurrently with Arab Franchise Expo event which concluded in Dubai recently, recognized the excellence in the franchise industry of the Arab world announced the winners of 2023. Franchise industry leaders filled the Iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 -Grand Lounge to celebrate 2023’s top franchise entrepreneurs, leaders, and their legacy. The ceremony began with a keynote speech by the Chief Guest of the event Dr. Eesa Mohammed Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai about the latest insights into the importance of home-grown franchise brands and how these trends can influence the local economy. One notable aspect of Barns Cafe’s success story is its seamless amalgamation of traditional Saudi flavors with contemporary cafe culture. Under Al Zain’s leadership, Barns Cafe has not only expanded its footprint but has also introduced a variety of innovative offerings that resonate with a diverse clientele. Sustainability, another cornerstone of Al Zain’s strategy, has been masterfully integrated into Barns Cafe’s operations. This initiative has not only positively impacted the environment but has also set Barns Cafe apart in a competitive market, making it a leader in eco-friendly practices within the industry. Mohammed Al Zain earned his engineering degree from King Abdul Aziz University in Jeddah and later advanced his studies at the prestigious Harvard Business School, Harvard University, in Boston, Massachusetts, USA Specializing in change management and organizational growth, Mohammed has cemented his reputation as a leading figure in his domain. His proactive strategies and innovative thinking have been pivotal to Barns café’s expansion. Both team members and industry peers respect Mohammed for his clear strategic insight and steadfast dedication to excellence. The company’s exponential growth, further accentuated by its expansion plans and consistently positive customer reviews, speaks volumes of Al Zain’s commitment to excellence. His approach to leadership, which emphasizes employee empowerment and inclusivity, has cultivated a culture of innovation and collaboration within Barns Cafe. As the Arab Franchise Awards night unfolded, the attendees lauded and celebrated the success stories of various franchisees. However, Mohammed Al-Zain ‘s achievement stood as a beacon of hope and inspiration for emerging entrepreneurs and established CEOs alike. His journey, characterized by resilience, innovation, and a customer-centric approach, offers a blueprint for success in the ever-evolving world of franchising. Mohammed Al Zain at the Harvard Business School in Boston, Massachusetts, USA Saudi Arabian coffee chain Barn’s has announced international expansion plans and is targeting 1,000 stores globally by 2030. Founded in 1992 by the Al Amjaad Group, Barn’s currently operates more than 650 stores across Saudi Arabia, making it the Kingdom’s largest chain. The Jeddah-based company is planning to focus on drive-thru stores and smaller format sites, with global expansion to London, New York ,Malaysia ,Egypt, Bahrain  and UAE Markets

Gulf Franchise Expo 2024 Set For February 22 in Abu Dhabi, UAE

- October 9, 2023

In February 2024, Abu Dhabi is set to become a global hotspot for franchise professionals. The city is gearing up to host the Gulf Franchise Expo at Le Royal Meridian. This expo, touted as the Gulf region’s premier franchise gathering, is an initiative of the Arab Business Media Group, steered by the dynamic leadership of Mr. Khaled Almaeena. This one-day event is anticipated to be a melting pot for over 100 franchise brands, ranging from budding entrants to established giants across varied sectors including food, beauty, health, and home services. Attendees will get the unique opportunity to mingle with brand representatives, franchise executives, and peers, thereby expanding their professional networks. Highlights of the event include a cost-effective Franchise Exhibition for franchisors, exclusive conferences, one-on-one investor meetings, and the prestigious Arab Franchise Awards. These awards, encompassing various categories, aim to recognize the crème de la crème in franchising, from the “Best Franchise of the Year” to individual achievements in franchising. Dr. M.A. Babu, the Event Director, emphasized the Expo’s objective, stating, “This gathering is more than just an event. It’s a platform where potential franchisees can engage with successful regional and global franchisors, unveiling avenues of mutual growth.” With representations from over 25 countries, attendees can gain insights into the latest innovations, emerging trends, and growth trajectories of various franchise brands.The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, including nations such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, is rapidly emerging as a fertile ground for franchising. Favorable governmental policies, a booming consumer base, and a strategic geographical location make the GCC an ideal launchpad for franchising ventures. This strategic positioning also facilitates access to the broader markets of Asia, Middle East, and Africa.From food and beverage to retail and hospitality, the franchise potential in the GCC spans a wide spectrum, allowing entrepreneurs to carve their niche effectively. The essence of franchising in the GCC lies in collaboration; franchisors bring their brand prowess and proven business models, and franchisees introduce local insights and resources. In essence, as the Gulf Franchise Expo 2024 unfolds, it stands as a testament to the GCC’s growing stature in the global franchising arena. The event promises to be a pivotal platform for aspirants, offering them a gateway to the region’s promising economic landscape.

Topfranchise.com: The Premier Online Portal Championing Global Expansion for Arab Brands

- September 28, 2023

Topfranchise.com Founder and CEO Vasil Mansur-ulla at the Arab Franchise Expo 2023 ,Dubai Topfranchise.com proudly stands as the foremost online franchise platform dedicated to promoting Arab brands poised for global outreach. Founded in 2017 by CEO Vasil Mansur-ulla, the portal has carved out a reputation for bridging the gap between global entrepreneurs and franchisors on the lookout for investors. With a steadfast commitment to furnishing its users with current insights about the franchise domain, Topfranchise.com keeps pace with modern business trajectories and tendencies. The platform’s expansive Franchise Directory boasts not just renowned brands but also introduces the franchising community to the latest entrants in the market. Having honed its expertise over the past six years, Topfranchise.com has become an influential figure in lead generation, aiding countless business magnates in forging ties with potential investors. The portal’s popularity is evident from its impressive traffic data: attracting over 2.3 million global visitors annually, offering them a bouquet of promising business avenues. From Europe and Asia to North and South America, Africa, Australia, and beyond, entrepreneurs are presented with a kaleidoscope of franchise networks to explore. Laying claim to being the most extensive aggregator of franchise propositions, Topfranchise.com serves as a crucible where entrepreneurs worldwide can identify franchises aligning with their industry preferences and geographical inclinations. Furthermore, both established and emerging brands are represented, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the franchising sector. But the offerings don’t just stop at listings. Topfranchise.com extends its expertise to businesses, helping them spotlight their franchise packages. Through a combination of cutting-edge advertising strategies and tools, the portal guarantees targeted lead generation, making it the go-to hub for brand and franchise opportunity promotions. Venturing beyond mere listings, Topfranchise’s dedicated team furnishes holistic franchise development solutions. From incubating a nascent franchise to rejuvenating an existing one, the platform delivers a robust suite of strategies and instruments. Their track record speaks volumes, having spearheaded the expansion and evolution of thousands of businesses. To explore, connect, or expand, visit Topfranchise.com – where global franchising dreams find their anchor.

Grant Thornton Kuwait Receives “Hall of Fame” Award at Arab Franchise Awards Ceremony in Dubai

- September 26, 2023

Karim Ezz El-Din, Manager Tax Advisory and Compliance Services, Grant Thornton Kuwait receiving “Hall of Fame” award from Dr Eesa Mohammed Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai at Arab Franchise Awards ceremony,Dubai In a night filled with celebration and recognition of exceptional achievements in the world of franchising, Grant Thornton Kuwait stood tall as it was honored with the prestigious Hall of Fame award at the Arab Franchise Awards ceremony in Dubai. This remarkable accolade is a testament to the unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and outstanding contributions that Grant Thornton Kuwait has brought to the business services industry. Arab Franchise Awards 2023 held concurrently with Arab Franchise Expo event which concluded in Dubai recently, recognized the excellence in the franchise industry of the Arab world announced the winners of 2023. Franchise industry leaders filled the Iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 -Grand Lounge to celebrate 2023’s top franchise entrepreneurs, leaders, and their legacy. The ceremony began with a keynote speech by the Chief Guest of the event Dr. Eesa Mohammed Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai about the latest insights into the importance of home-grown franchise brands and how these trends can influence the local economy. Over the years, Grant Thornton ,Kuwait has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in franchising, setting a benchmark for others in the industry to follow. Their visionary leadership, coupled with a deep understanding of the franchising landscape, has not only enabled the firm to excel but has also propelled their clients and partners toward greater success. The Hall of Fame award represents a culmination of years of hard work, strategic vision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. It signifies Grant Thornton Kuwait’s enduring legacy in the franchise world and its profound impact on the industry. As they join the elite ranks of Hall of Fame recipients, Grant Thornton Kuwait stands as an inspiration to businesses and entrepreneurs, proving that dedication to quality and innovation can lead to extraordinary success in the competitive realm of franchising. Dr Eesa Mohammed Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai with the winners of  Arab Franchise Awards 2023 Ceremony in Dubai. In his acceptance speech, Karim Ezz El-Din, Manager Tax Advisory and Compliance Services, Grant Thornton Kuwait expressed gratitude for the honor and acknowledged the hard work and commitment of the entire team, stating, “This award is not just a recognition of our past achievements but also a motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of franchising. We are dedicated to shaping the future of this industry, empowering businesses, and fostering growth, and we are truly honored to be recognized for our contributions.”