Ajman based Real Karak Tea Café Plans 100 outlets in the UAE through franchise route

- May 5, 2023

The Ajman-based tea chain says the growing popularity of Karak tea is creating opportunities for expansion and is seeking to open 100 stores in the UAE. Dubai:   UAE café start-up franchise Real karak is seeking to accelerate its outlet growth across the country to reach 100 stores by the end of 2025. The franchise-operated chain, which has opened 15 stores across UAE since starting operations in 2019, said it will expand its presence via two store models — a traditional bricks-and-mortar outlet and  a compact café kiosk model. Founder Mohamed Shakir said there has been a significant increase in demand for tea and coffee shops across the UAE as café culture becomes more widespread. International coffee chains, including Costa Coffee, Starbucks and Tim Hortons have all gained ground in the UAE market over the last two decades.   Real Karak Café’s expansion plans also demonstrate the growing success of domestic premium café concepts across UAE. The United Arab Emirates instant coffee market was evaluated at US$ 67.574 million for the year 2020, growing at a CAGR of 11.88% reaching the market size of US$148.311 million by the year 2027. Rising tea consumption among individuals owing to the growing health and wellness trends is driving the market growth.. The company currently operates 15 retail stores across UAE Major part of this network expansion will be through franchise outlets, it said. “The large part of the expansion strategy is based on franchise network development. This business model is asset light with high return on investment,” company’s founder Shakir K P said. It is looking at smaller kiosk formats to be opened in food courts, he added. During next three years, Real Karak plans to open 85 outlets in different UAE markets like Dubai, Abudhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.   Shakir K P, Founder, Real Karak Café   “Real Karak café was set up to serve exceptional Tea with food, elegant ambience, uniquely crafted recipes, refinement in personalized service where each customer is treated with love and care, vibrancy in the carefully curated menu has been a part of his passion to provide franchise with a one-of-a-kind experience “said Shakir K P founder of real Karak Cafe.   Five Key Features of Real Karak Café franchise Recognition – Karak Tea is getting accolades from the tea-lovers across the nation who want to savor the great taste of Karak Chai. Flavors and varieties – With the range of flavors to offer, Real Karak serves the best tea and brews a distinct variety of coffee too in its kitchen. Real Karak also provide assorted snacks and beverages to its customers. Affordable Quality –  Real Karak  products are not only healthy but also very affordable, Real Karak aims to provide every sip of happiness at an affordable price. Presentation – Real Karak product pleases every sense of human beings. Its  unique presentation is a treat to the eyes and a delicacy to taste. Hygiene – Real Karak maintain the highest standard of quality in all of our products and follow the best practices to serve the most hygienic and healthy food to our customers.

Dubai based Cryo Wellness Plans Global Franchise Expansion

- May 2, 2023

Established in 2013, °CRYO is a professional partner in Wellness, Fitness, Recovery, Beauty, and Slimming treatments. With centers all over the world and unparalleled integration with technology. Cryotherapy involves “super-cooling” one’s body for medical or therapeutic reasons. The benefits of cryotherapy stem from reducing the surface temperature of the skin to 4°C in order to increase blood circulation throughout the body and reduce inflammation. Just do a quick online search and you’ll find a lot of benefits for cryotherapy. Many people have shared their own experience about how cryo treatment has helped with their condition. Many have reported that it alleviated common conditions such as asthma, migraines, chronic pain, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, cryotherapy treatment has also helped lessen the recurrence or lower the severity of symptoms of illnesses and conditions such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. What is Cryotherapy? Cryotherapy is an innovative treatment based on the localized or full body use of sub-zero temperatures (-140°C) to reduce the surface temperature of the body to 4°C. This helps for various health benefits in the areas of wellness, fitness, recovery, beauty, and slimming. °CRYO has 13 Locations Worldwide, 4 Branches (2 in Dubai, 2 in Abu Dhabi) 2 Branches (2 in Bangkok) 1 Branch (1 in Manama) 2 Branches (2 in Kuwait City) 3 Branches (3 in Sydney) 1 Branch (1 in Hong Kong) REASONS TO BECOME A CRYO WELLNESS FRANCHISE OWNER? Proven Business Model °CRYO has already established a successful business with a strong brand, a loyal customer base, and effective marketing strategies. °CRYO Franchise owners earn 150% ROI in just 5 years. Brand Recognition Another key benefit of franchising our °CRYO brand is that you can use our existing brand recognition. By franchising our business, you can expand your reach beyond your local community and into new markets. Access to Support and Resources °CRYO franchise program help you with finding your °CRYO location, Designing and architecture, Cryotherapy equipment installation and training, Staff training, Marketing support, and Appointment System Management. Growth Opportunities Finally, franchising °CRYO brand can provide new growth opportunities. By expanding °CRYO Franchise business through franchising, you can take advantage of economies of scale, access new markets, and leverage the resources and talents of a wider network of business owners. In conclusion, franchising our cryotherapy brand can be an excellent way to share our success with others. By using our existing brand recognition, proven business model, and access to support and resources. If you are considering franchising our cryotherapy brand, fill in the form below and one of our team members will get back to you as soon as possible. Amhar Nuzreth Hilal, Senior Franchise Executive, °CRYO, Wellness, Dubai KNOW THEIR SERVICES

Dubai based Meals N’ More Healthy vending Machine Franchise plans 100 Locations by 2025

- April 26, 2023

Meals & More Vend cafe is a startup franchise that launched the first healthy vending machines in the UAE in response to an increasing number of forward-thinking companies who were asking for something other than junk food in their employee vending machines. Currently, the company is operating machines at four different locations. Those locations are JAFZA, JLT, Business Bay and Dubai Technologies Corporate Office located in Dubai. The company proposes to add over 100 machines over the coming 2 to 3 years in the UAE. Meals N More Dubai’s first 24X7 instant food vending machine, installs cutting edge vending Italian vending machines to make salads and meals available at the click of a button, requiring zero human intervention. Along with this novel element, Meals N’ More vending machines or kiosks offer an array of products from Healthy Salads,Veg and Non Veg Biriyanis, café-packed savories and bakery products to ready-to-eat  packaged food. Even though vending machines are not a new concept in the UAE, they are typically found in airports or at large workplaces. At the same time, their current offerings are limited to the chocolates, chips, cookies, cakes, colas and candies. These packaged foods and beverages are, understandably, regarded as unhealthy food options. Which Meals N more wishes to alter to Healthy and balanced options. Mr. Bijoy Anand Raghavan  and Mr. Yogesh Kamath receives the prestigious Arab Franchise “Innovative Franchise of the  Year award” from Dr. Eesa Mohammed Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai   Hence, the company began preparing their own fresh food from Cloud Kitchen and sees there platform as a Healthy food aggregator, which has revolutionized the vending industry in Dubai with its Affordable-meal- concept. “Our endeavor is to enable the fresh meals and meal plans through 100 per cent cashless, app-based and contactless stores and pantries, not only in office buildings but also in establishments such as hospitals, residential societies, educational institutes like colleges and in-transit as well through cabs and buses,” says Bijoy  Ananad Raghavan CEO of Meals N  ‘ More Vend Café. Meals N’ More vendcafe Also won the prestigious Arab Franchise “Innovative Franchise of the Year award” last year.

Saudi Based Barn’s Halal Coffee Chain Eyes London Expansion

- April 23, 2023

Saudi Based Premium Halal Coffee chain Barns has announced significant plans for expansion that will see it open UK outlets in various formats and has initial plan is to open 10 outlets in the city of London through franchise route. Saudi Arabian coffee chain Barn’s has announced international expansion plans and is targeting 1,000 stores globally by 2030.  The Saudi based largest coffee chain which operates 600 stores in the kingdom and the new franchise expansion initiative is initially targeting the United Kingdom, which Barn’s Coffee deems key growth markets. Sultan AL Mutlaq, Head of Franchising at the International Franchise Expo, London Speaking at the International Franchise Show event at ExCeL, London, Mr Sultan Al Mutlaq, Franchise Head of Barns Coffee said “We have ambitious plans to bring this extremely popular halal coffee concept from Saudi Arabia, initially with 10 stores in London. The next phase will be to expand into the other cities in the UK, in the coming years.” Founded in 1992 by the Al Amjaad Group, Barn’s currently operates more than 500 stores across Saudi Arabia, making it the Kingdom’s second largest chain behind US-based Dunkin 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 ,North African AND European markets. The coffee shop market is expected to continue with positive growth, with sales expected to reach £4.5 billion by 2027.The Franchise Industry in the United Kingdom  contributes £15 Billion to the UK economy – an increase of 46% over the past 10 years. The total number of people employed within franchising has now reached 621,000 – an increase of 70% over the past 10 years. There are now 48,600 franchise units in the united kingdom, a rise of 10% from 2015. There are also 935 business format franchise systems, around double of what there were 20 years ago. Barns Coffee at the recently concluded International Franchise Show at London.

7‑Eleven, Inc. Launches New Electric Vehicle Charging Network, 7Charge

- April 16, 2023

7Charge Will Bring New Level of Accessibility and Convenience to EV Drivers IRVING, Texas:  7‑Eleven, Inc. announced 7Charge, its new, proprietary EV charging network and app that delivers a convenient and reliable fast-charging experience at select 7‑Eleven® stores in the U.S., and coming soon to Canada. 7‑Eleven intends to build one of the largest and most compatible electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging networks of any retailer in North America with the launch of 7Charge, which is already delivering fast-charging services to customers in several locations in Florida, Texas, Colorado, and California. The 7Charge network will offer EV drivers 7‑Eleven’s trademark convenience and accessibility. 7Charge sites allow customers to charge any EV make and model compatible with common CHAdeMO or Combined Charging System (CCS) plug types*, and the 7Charge app offers a new level of convenience and coordination to customers looking for a seamless charging and payment experience. The 7Charge app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play, or by visiting 7‑Eleven.com/7charge. “For over 95 years, 7‑Eleven has innovated to meet our customers’ needs – delivering convenience where, when and how they want it,” said Joe DePinto, President and Chief Executive Officer at 7‑Eleven. “Now, we are innovating once again to meet our customers’ where they are by expanding our business to provide EV drivers convenience of the future…today.” The 7Charge network will deliver on the growing consumer need for EV charging infrastructure. By expanding the 7Charge network, while continuing to utilize third-party fast-charging network options, 7‑Eleven will have the ability to grow its network to match consumer demand and make EV charging available to neighborhoods that have, until now, lacked access. Once the network’s expansion is complete, 7‑Eleven will have one of the largest and most compatible fast-charging networks of any retailer in North America serving communities and customers at charging stations across its entire family of brands including Speedway® and Stripes® stores.

Saudi Arabian Barns Café Goes Global

- April 14, 2023

ZAIN (AL) Mohammed CEO, Amjaad Group The Saudi Halal coffee chain Barns announces major global expansion plan with 1000 outlets by 2030. Dubai: With a grand vision and expansive plans, Barns Café aims to create a global footprint and impact. The Saudi coffee chain is set to open approximately 1000 smaller stores and drive-through outlets by 2030. Concepts such as drive-through chains have been noted to resonate with customers and prove a successful avenue to grow. The expansion will be implemented by Barns Café through the Middle East, Africa, along with Asian and European markets.  Although a contemporary name in the market, Barns is a home-grown specialty coffee brand that was founded 30 years before in 1992 by the Al Amjaad Group. With a diverse range of products and a current operation of over 500 coffee franchises in multiple cities, Barns Café has grown leaps and bounds since the beginning.  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 joe, from freshly-baked savouries to a range of customizable beverages – Barns has created and continues to innovate a unique coffee experience with local storefronts.  Interestingly, the story of Barns Café began with the name Barnie’s, which changed to Barn Café and finally to the name we know today. The establishment prides itself on providing authentic flavours and premium quality coffee products to its customers since 1992. Barns also witnessed the turning tides and the progressive era within the kingdom, marking its presence with the first drive-through coffee shop in the area.  Today, Barns utilizes the franchising model to speed its growth in terms of locations and establishments. But it also ensures to keep approximately 50% of the establishments are under the company name. Strategic plans have been devised by the organization’s leaders to strengthen the company in terms of aspects such as state-of-the-art facilities, customer-centricity, and an unparalleled barista experience.  In the coming year, Al Amjaad plans to issue an IPO, enabling the public to transition from loyal customers to investors in the company’s success. “The company’s vision programme includes opening more store locations, locally and abroad,” said ZAIN (AL) Mohammed CEO of Amjaad Group.   30 Years of Serving Memorable Cups of Coffee A CULMINATION OF AUTHENTIC TASTE, PREMIUM QUALITY, AND A GOOD EXPERIENCE Each cup comes with a serving of love and delicious taste for customers. This cup is the result of consistent exploration, experimentation, keeping up with market trends and investing time, energy and resources for a stellar product range. With the help of a passionate and skilled team, Barns Café has mastered the art of preparing a memorable cup of coffee.  The bitter and soothing, the sweet yet effective, to black or white, to cream or Plain, each cup of coffee is a unique experience in making A hot spiralling brewed Cup, with the fragrance that delights, with a sip that clings to your throat, hits your Mind, and paves your imagination, Barn’s stands to be the representation of that. The distinction of your choice reflects Barn’s essence in creating the perfect cup The love for coffee runs deep within the Middle East. With almost 20 million annual visitors to the Makkah region for the Islamic pilgrimage, Hajj, Barns has had the privilege to create connections with people from all around the world – owing to its strategic location.  Millions of customers join the Barns experience as they are served one of the most memorable cups of coffee found across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Perfectly roasted beans, and fresh dairy, topped off with a smile that is bound to brighten one’s day. Vibrant Team Behind the Barns coffee revolution during the Barn’s Cafe 30th anniversary celebrations in Jeddah Barns 2 Go  In the age of innovation, Barns Café has created a machine that may just change the game for the industry, the Barns 2 Go Vitro – a machine with unparalleled speed and reliability. It offers a range of delicious speciality beverage options, crafted with authentic Italian-style espresso. Do not let the compact appearance fool you, as this is a high-capacity bean-to-cup coffee machine that can stand up to the demands of busy commercial environments.  The latest model of Barns 2 Go Vitro is a large-capacity, automatic, hot beverage machine – ideal for preparing an extensive menu of hot beverages of the highest quality. In addition to preparing great coffee, creating a pleasant customer experience is of utmost importance. The machine aids in creating fast and prompt service – especially during peak hours. This machine is an ideal standalone solution for unattended high-volume locations such as offices, meeting areas, convenience stores and hotels that wish to offer excellent coffee service continuously and effortlessly. The machine is designed to provide the ultimate experience from the first cup to the last – using coffee beans, 100% skimmed powdered milk and luxury powdered chocolate.  There are many attractive aspects to this machine:  It is supplied with a bespoke cabinet  It has a complete operational training manual on the cleaning and restocking of the machine Weekly delivery of ingredients  Pay by card or cash – an array of options for the customer  The machines are fully maintained by trained technicians  The ability to control drink prices  Barns Drive-Through Concept  Barns Café’s ambition is to become the world’s best franchise system within the coffee retail industry. If you share the passion for coffee and exemplary service, you are invited to join the Barns family. Over the past 20 years, the retail coffee industry has progressed tremendously. National and international chains have responded to global consumer demand for a comfortable and relaxing environment where friends, colleagues, and family can gather over a cup of coffee and a fresh pastry.  The rapid development of Barns Café is possible through franchising. Thanks to this, the Barns family has been able to transfer their knowledge to local entrepreneurs, allowing them to expand and duplicate their business

Social Development Bank plans to support SMEs with $6bn financing over next 3 years

- April 12, 2023

Funding Franchise Projects from SAR 150,000 to 4 million RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Social Development Bank aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises with SR24 billion ($6.3 billion) financing over the next three years, as the Kingdom steadily diversifies its economy in line with the goals outlined in Vision 2030, revealed a top official.  In sidelines of the Biban 2023 conference, Sultan Al-Hamidi, Chief Business Officer of SDB said that the bank provided SR5 billion of financing to some 9,000 SMEs in 2022 alone.  He said they see big growth in SMEs, and the bank has reacted to that. “Of course, we have a plan for the coming three years-we will deploy around SR24 billion.” In 2008, SDB started a segment of SMEs and micro-SMEs. “From that date until today, we successfully deployed around SR16 billion to 40,000 SMEs. And how do we help them? We start with them from idea until expansion,” said Al-Hamidi.  Al-Hamidi added that SDB is providing financing to SMEs after a thorough screening process. The bank will provide money in installments, also making sure that entrepreneurs are executing business plans properly. Ibrahim Al-Rashid, CEO, Social Development Bank   “We start with them from the idea. We interview them, and we make sure that they have very good training for two weeks to make sure that they can do a feasibility study.”  The bank also has a center called Dulani which was launched in 2016. “It is considered a clinic for SMEs, both for startups and even in the mid-age of the SME,” he added.  As the feasibility study gets completed, the bank will issue the loan, but it will not be deployed completely.  “We give the entrepreneur 25 percent, and then we visit. Then we deploy another 25 percent after six months. So, over two years, we have four interactions with the entrepreneur to make sure that the plan which was submitted is really executed,” explained the bank executive. Sultan Al-Hamidi, Executive Vice president, Social Development Bank   According to Al-Hamidi, Saudi Arabia offers a strong growth opportunity for SMEs, as the Kingdom has a higher success rate average among entrepreneurs compared to global figures.  “We did a very good job to make sure that what we are doing is right and correct. And we went with the help of GASTAT (General Authority for Statistics) to see what has happened to the SMEs that we have already financed. And luckily, we have seen a growth in Saudization, growth in employment; 81,000 jobs have been created out of these SMEs,” said Al-Hamidi.  He further pointed out that 30 percent of these employees were women, which indicates that the gender gap is reducing due to the growth of SMEs in the Kingdom. Some of the goals outlined in Vision 2030 include lowering the unemployment rate from 11.6 percent to 7 percent, increasing women’s participation in the workforce from 22 percent to 30 percent, and expanding SME contribution to 35 percent of gross domestic product by the end of this decade. Franchise Program by Social Development Bank The Social Development Bank offers a franchise program to support franchise projects, through financing products starting from 150,000 to 4 million riyals, with a financing period of up to 8 years. The program contains more than 60 brands, granting franchise rights in various domains such as restaurants, cafes, patisseries, healthcare and more. They are available on the bank’s website in the below link https://www.sdb.gov.sa/en-us/our-products/projects/productive-loans/products/franchise-program

Starbucks Store achieves first LEED Platinum certification in the GCC

- April 12, 2023

The Starbucks store at KAFD, Riyadh. Image Courtesy: Alshaya Group Kuwait:  Adding another important milestone to a long list of achievements under Alshaya’s partnership with Starbucks. The Starbucks store at KAFD, Riyadh has become one of the first few Food & Beverage stores in the GCC region to attain this prestigious accolade. Alshaya Group and Starbucks have achieved an historic milestone with KAFD Starbucks becoming one of only six stores globally to achieve LEED Platinum certification by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Having scored 81 points, the store is also recognised as being the third LEED platinum interior design and construction (ID +C) retail store in the GCC, making it one of the greenest cafés in the GCC. The award-winning store was recognised for incorporating eco-friendly materials including recycled terrazzo and local marble, to create natural patterns throughout the store interiors. It also includes a biophilic design with a collection of green walls, natural trees and planters that provide a sense of calm and relaxation to customers. The store also scores well on the use of water-efficient indoor fixtures, the elimination of CFCs, energy modelling compliance, the use of energy-efficient equipment and lighting fixtures, and the use of chilled water from the base building using compliant refrigerant. Commenting on this distinguished achievement, Andy Holmes, President of Alshaya Starbucks said: “This is a prestigious recognition for us as sustainability is at the core of our business. Earning this important certification demonstrates our tremendous green building leadership and is another testimony of how we act to adopt sustainably best practices at every stage of our processes. The Starbucks store in KAFD is a prime example of how innovative work can create local solutions that contribute to making a global difference.   “Sustainability is a key element of our approach to design at Starbucks. Our teams have worked hard to design, construct, and operate our stores to meet LEED requirements on a global scale, as we continue to push the envelope of what our stores can be in the future. I am proud of this recognition, and I would like to thank all of those who have made it possible.” further commented Andy LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), is the most widely used green building rating system in the world and an international symbol of excellence. Through design, construction and operations practices that improve environmental and human health, LEED-certified buildings help make the world more sustainable. LEED certification is awarded for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions in areas including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.   About Starbucks The Starbucks Experience is more than a cup of coffee. From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrated the rich tradition of coffee but that also brought a feeling of community, a comfortable third place away from the demands of work and home. And with every cup, we strive to bring both our heritage and an exceptional experience to life. The Starbucks mission statement is more than words on a piece of paper – it’s the philosophy that guides how we do business every day. Our mission is to inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup, and one neighbourhood at a time. We are committed to doing business in ways that are good to the earth and each other. From the way, we buy our coffee, to minimizing our environmental footprint, to being involved in local communities. Today, with more than 31,000 retail locations in North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, and the Pacific Rim, Starbucks is the premier roaster and retailer of the finest coffee. At Starbucks, we are focused on delivering the best experience to every customer at each of our locations around the world. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to work with so many communities, and we are committed to providing the Starbucks Experience while respecting the local customs and tastes of each country we operate in.   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, Turkey, and Europe, with thousands of stores, cafes, restaurants, and leisure destinations, as well as a large scale online and digital business.    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.  Brands such as Starbucks, H&M, Mothercare, Debenhams, American Eagle Outfitters, P.F. Chang’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Shake Shack, The Body Shop, M.A.C, Victoria’s Secret, Boots, Pottery Barn and KidZania. 

Yum! Partners with Lafayette Square Investment Firm to Lend $50M to Franchisees

- April 12, 2023

The Funds target underrepresented operators, both new and existing. Miami, Florida – Lafayette Square has signed an agreement with Yum! Brands, Inc. to lend up to $50 million to new and existing underrepresented Yum! franchisees identified by Yum! Brands as part of a new financing program called Franchise Fast Start. Franchise Fast Start will help Yum! Brands carve a path to successful ownership for talented, underrepresented people while bringing diverse voices and ideas to the broader franchising community. By providing access to capital for qualified, underrepresented franchisees identified by Yum! Brands, the program will open opportunities for entrepreneurs pursuing multi-unit franchise transactions. Wanda Williams , Head of Global Franchising, Yum Brands   “This program is another step toward our goal of becoming the world’s multi-brand franchisor of choice which strives to create a global franchise system as diverse as the communities we serve,” said Wanda Williams, Head of Yum! Global Franchising. “Our communities and the industry benefit from diversity of ownership and thought, and Franchise Fast Start will help level the franchising playing field and break down barriers for underrepresented people to become franchise owners.” The financing program will also have the flexibility to lend more expansively to franchises on a strategic basis, facilitating growth capital for both qualified new and existing franchisees.‍ “We are excited to manage this financing program with Yum! Brands,” said Damien Dwin, Founder and CEO of Lafayette Square. “By collaborating with the world’s largest restaurant company, we believe we can reach more local businesses and impact more prospective and existing franchisees across the United States. It is a compelling opportunity to expand access to capital to underserved people and communities and achieve impact at scale.” Damien Dwin, Founder and CEO of Lafayette Square   About Lafayette Square Lafayette Square aims to create investment opportunities in overlooked places and underserved markets. We invest across asset classes and seek to provide robust risk-adjusted returns to investors while positively supporting people and communities. For more information about Lafayette Square, please visit www.lafayettesquare.com. About Yum! Brands  Yum! Brands, Inc., based in Louisville, Kentucky, and its subsidiaries franchise or operate a system of over 55,000 restaurants in more than 155 countries and territories under the company’s concepts – KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and The Habit Burger Grill. The Company’s KFC, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut brands are global leaders of the chicken, Mexican-style food and pizza categories, respectively. The Habit Burger Grill is a fast-casual restaurant concept specializing in made-to-order chargrilled burgers, sandwiches and more. In 2023, Yum! Brands was included on the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index and Newsweek’s lists recognizing America’s Most Responsible Companies, America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity and America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women. In 2022, the Company was named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index North America.

Kitopi, UAE’s cloud kitchen operator, acquires AWJ Investments

- April 12, 2023

Saman Darkan and Mohamad Ballout Dubai: One of the biggest names in the cloud kitchen space, Kitopi has bought out Dubai-based F&B business AWJ, and the name behind delivery and dine-in brands such as Operation Falafel, Catch 22, Awani, and Sushi Do. The latter opened its first outlet in Dubai in 2014 and since expanded the line up to more than 10 brands and 32 plus outlets in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Operation Falafel has more than 2 million customers globally per year. AWJ also has franchises running in New York and London. It employs more than 1,300. Cloud kitchen and virtual-only restaurant brands have had three record years of growth and the trend is set to continue as the concept expands in the core UAE and Saudi markets and starts seeing itself in others. Kitopi itself has raised a significant funding corpus to fire its expansion and deals. Last year in March, it announced a $415 million funding round that saw Japanese investment heavyweight Softbank come into the picture. Kitopi now has over 100 brands, operating in more than 200 locations across five markets. The deal – the value is undisclosed – will see the AWJ brands ‘eye expansion in new markets where Kitopi has a solidified presence and a vast network of locations’. AWJ will also benefit from Kitopi’s SKOS (Smart Kitchen Operating System) platform. “The co-founders and leaders of AWJ have done a remarkable job in building its iconic brands and growing them across borders,” said Mohamad Ballout, CEO and co-founder of Kitopi. “It is going to be a privilege to continue to innovate, elevate and expand its success.” AWJ will have a new CEO but retain their original team and operate as a separate vertical to Kitopi’s on-demand business. Founded in Dubai in January 2018, Kitopi has over 5000 employees, and has offices in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain. It also operates an engineering hub in Krakow, Poland, a global customer experience center in Dubai, and a Robotics Hub in Odense, Denmark. “We have built on core fundamentals, raising the bar and setting the business up for a sustainable future – thanks to our 1,300+ team champions, our supporting shareholders, the unique brands we created, and the millions of consumers we serve. It is now time for a new chapter” – Manhal Naser, former Group CEO and co-founding Director of AWJ