Winners of the Gulf Franchise Awards 2025, with the Chief Guest Khaled Almaeena, Chairman of the Arab Business Media Group in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi witnessed a grand celebration of franchise excellence as the Gulf Franchise Awards 2025 were announced alongside the Gulf Franchise Expo. The prestigious awards honored top-performing brands and industry leaders who have made significant strides in the franchising landscape across the Middle East. Recognized for their contributions to health and beauty, Elegant Hoo Poe won the award for “Leading Provider of Advanced Health & Beauty Solutions”, while B Chain Consultants was named the “Best Franchise Investment Advisory Firm”. In the food and beverage sector, Halla Shawarma of Galadari Foods & Beverages clinched the “Fastest Growing Restaurant Chain of the Year”, and Barns Café – Saudi Arabia secured two major accolades: “Fastest Growing Coffee Chain for Rapid Expansion and Market Dominance” and “Outstanding Franchise Management and Support Systems”. The event also highlighted the emergence of new and promising franchise concepts. Eclipse Well-Being Hub and School received recognition as the “Promising Wellness Franchise of the Year”, and True Gamers was named the “Best E-Sports Franchise of the Year”. Legal and business support services were also celebrated, with Bird & Bird winning “International Franchise Law Firm of the Year”, and the London Chamber of Commerce & Industry, UK, being honored for “Supporting International Business with UK Market Entry”. Investment and financial solutions played a crucial role in franchise expansion, as CYNYRGY Capital was awarded “Leading Provider of Franchise Growth Capital Solutions”, while the Aseer Development Authority was recognized as the “Best Franchise Retail Destination of the Year”. Several regional consulting firms were acknowledged for their contributions to market expansion. Emityz Franchise Consulting, UAE, won “Top Franchise Consulting Firm of the Year”, while Chain Oman received the award for “Best Oman Franchise Market Entry Firm”. Notable brand winners included Salmontini Le Bistro, which earned the title of “Best Bistro Brand in the UAE”, and Sary Hamway, CEO & Founder of The Franchise Trainer, who was recognized as the “Top Franchise Coach of the Year”. Top Franchise.com won “Best Digital Franchise Platform of the Year”, whereas Waqqif Group was named “Promising QSR Group of the Year” for its rapid expansion and innovative approach in the quick-service restaurant segment. Le Trone Noir of Cyprus won the “Innovator in Kids’ Apparel Retailing” Award. Sultan Al Mutlaq of Saudi based Bars Café wins Multiple Awards at The Gulf Franchise Expo ,Abu Dhabi,2025 The awards also highlighted excellence across diverse industries, with The One Spa for Gents winning “Promising Gents Spa Franchise of the Year”, and Sada Al Reem for Entrepreneurship taking home the title of “Best Entrepreneurship Firm of the Year”. F&B Pillars was recognized for its expertise in market entry as the “Best Egyptian Franchise Market Entry Firm”, while Soccer Buddies earned the “Kids Sports Franchise Excellence Award”. The luxury and lifestyle sector was also celebrated, with Pearce Bespoke winning “Premier Bespoke Tailoring Brand of the Year”, and Arab Franchise Magazine receiving the accolade for “Pioneering Arab Franchise Media Excellence”. With the success of the Gulf Franchise Expo 2025, these awards serve as a testament to the growing impact and dynamic expansion of franchising in the region.
Sofia Anastasiou, Founder of Eclipse Well-Being Hub & School, Dubai Dubai’s dynamic wellness landscape is poised to embrace an industry-defining expansion as UAE’s home-grown Eclipse Well-Being Hub & School, a premier holistic wellness and education center, announces its ambitious franchise growth plans across the Gulf region. Recognized for its authenticity, expertise, and transformative approach, Eclipse is inviting strategic franchise partners to bring its pioneering vision and mission to new markets. A Revolutionary Approach to Holistic Well-Being Founded in Dubai five years ago, Eclipse Wellbeing Hub & School has rapidly emerged as a beacon of excellence in holistic health, personal growth, and education. Eclipse is a complete ecosystem for mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, seamlessly integrating ancient wisdom with modern science and modalities. Its world-class body-mind practices, serve as avenues that empower individuals to explore their true nature, unlock their potential and awaken deep mind, body, and soul alignment. Celebrating the values of personal development, human connection and meaningful education, Eclipse is the real deal in the path to a conscious, joyful way of being. As the leading Yoga Teacher Training School & Meditation Institute in Dubai, Eclipse is affiliated with International Yoga Alliance and offers over twenty-one accredited (21) courses in Body and Mind practices, setting new standards in building life skills & wellness education. Eclipse’s core philosophy is rooted in delivering authentic, top notch & long-term well-being education that integrate into daily life, ensuring lasting transformation. Whether it is physical health management, emotional balance, therapy and recovery, or mental resilience, Eclipse provides a multidisciplinary approach designed to empower people to become the best versions of themselves. At the heart of this success lies a genuine calling, a spirited community and a hand-picked team of world-class educators and teachers, whose passion and deep mastery manifest in their own way of life, serving as living examples and sources of inspiration for all. Complementing this, is an experienced business team that drives the brand’s growth, ensuring a seamless blend of expertise, authenticity, and organisational excellence. Eclipse Well-Being Hub & School Team at Dubai Marina Centre, Dubai Why Invest in an Eclipse Franchise? Eclipse’s scalable, high-impact franchise model presents an unparalleled opportunity for investors to tap into the booming wellness industry, with never-ending growth potential. Our comprehensive franchise toolkit includes: Turnkey Business Model – A fully operational system covering site selection, space design, staff training, and operations setup. Exclusive Territory Rights – Franchisees gain access to high-demand wellness markets in the Gulf, ensuring significant and sustainable growth potential. Comprehensive Training & Support – Ongoing training programs for Teachers, Educators, and Business operators, alongside strategic centralised and non-centralised marketing support, business synergies and collaborative working models. Tech-Integrated Solutions – Advanced booking platforms, dedicated CRM systems, automations, and API integrations that enhance customer engagement and retention. Diverse Revenue Streams – Multiple revenue channels, including Yoga Teacher Training Courses, Body & Mind Memberships, Recovery & Wellness Programs (Ayurveda, Therapy), Corporate & Event Collaborations, Thematic Retreats, and Kids Wellbeing Activities (Martial Arts Gymnastics, and more). With the global wellness industry surpassing $6.3 trillion in 2023, and an ever-increasing demand for comprehensive self-care solutions in the Gulf, Eclipse is perfectly positioned to lead the next wave of growth in the sector. Swami Vishweshwaranand, Head of Insight at Eclipse is in charge of conducting all mindfulness & meditation practices. Strategic Expansion Across the Gulf Region Eclipse is initially targeting key high-growth markets including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain, where demand for high quality wellbeing services and education is accelerating. Expansion plans focus on prime urban locations, upscale residential communities, premium hospitality sectors, and corporate wellness programs. “The Middle East is undergoing a phenomenal wellness revolution,” says Eclipse’s founder, Sofia. “People today seek far more than fitness—they crave mind-body harmony, mental clarity, emotional resilience, and holistic longevity solutions. By franchising Eclipse, we are expanding our transformative impact while upholding the values that make our brand truly exceptional.” Eclipse Wellness runs the top meditation institute & yoga teacher training school in Dubai. Become a Partner in the Future of Wellness Eclipse is actively seeking franchise partners with a passion for education, personal development and wellness, strong business acumen, and a vision for growth. Ideal candidates include investors, wellness entrepreneurs, hospitality groups, and wellbeing professionals looking to diversify and lead in the thriving and fascinating wellness space. With a proven business model, an influential brand identity, and a highly driven team, Eclipse Wellbeing Hub & School is set to redefine the wellness industry across the Gulf region. Join hands with Eclipse to shape the future of holistic well-being! Visit our official website www.goeclipse.com or meet our expansion team at the Gulf Franchise Expo in Abu Dhabi on 15th Feb 2025 to explore this exceptional investment opportunity!
The Gulf Franchise Expo 2025, set to take place on February 15 at Le Royal Méridien, Abu Dhabi, is gearing up to be a landmark event for the franchising industry in the Gulf region. Organized by the Arab Business Media Group under the visionary leadership of Mr. Khaled Almaeena, this premier franchise gathering aims to showcase the vast opportunities the region offers to franchisors and franchisees alike. This one-day event will feature over 100 franchise brands, spanning diverse sectors such as food, beauty, health, and home services. From emerging startups to globally recognized giants, the Expo will bring together industry professionals, brand representatives, franchise executives, and aspiring entrepreneurs under one roof, fostering unparalleled networking opportunities. Event Highlights The Gulf Franchise Expo 2025 will deliver a multifaceted experience through: Dr. M.A. Babu, the Event Director, emphasized the Expo’s significance, stating, “This gathering is more than just an event. It’s a platform for potential franchisees to connect with successful regional and global franchisors, opening avenues for mutual growth and success.” Franchising in the GCC: A Flourishing Opportunity With participation from over 25 countries, the Expo underscores the Gulf region’s increasing prominence in the global franchising arena. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including nations like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, offers a fertile ground for franchise ventures. Key drivers of this growth include favorable government policies, a robust consumer market, and the region’s strategic geographical location, serving as a gateway to Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. From food and beverage to retail and hospitality, the GCC’s franchise market spans a broad spectrum, enabling entrepreneurs to identify and seize niche opportunities. Franchising in the region thrives on collaboration, where franchisors contribute proven business models and brand expertise, while franchisees bring valuable local insights and resources to the table. A Global Platform for Growth As the Gulf Franchise Expo 2025 unfolds, it is poised to become a pivotal platform for aspiring franchisees and franchisors to explore the dynamic economic landscape of the GCC. Beyond its role as a networking event, the Expo stands as a testament to the region’s growing stature in the global franchising market, offering participants the tools and connections to achieve sustained growth. The Gulf Franchise Expo 2025 promises to be a transformative experience, driving forward the aspirations of individuals and businesses eager to harness the Gulf region’s immense franchise potential. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this groundbreaking event.
Angela C. S. Hsiao , Director, Taiwan Trade Center, Dubai (representative office of TAITRA) receiving the “Best Franchise Promotion Partner in Asia” from Dr Easa Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai at the Arab Franchise Expo 2024, held aboard the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 in Dubai. Dubai, UAE – The Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) has cemented its status as a leader in franchise promotion by winning the prestigious title of “Best Franchise Promotion Partner in Asia” at the Arab Franchise Expo 2024, held aboard the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 in Dubai. This award recognizes TAITRA’s outstanding contributions to promoting Taiwanese franchises on the international stage and fostering successful partnerships across Asia and beyond. Established in 1970, TAITRA has been at the forefront of advancing Taiwan’s trade and commerce, particularly in the franchise industry. The organization’s strategic initiatives, including international trade missions, exhibitions, and matchmaking events, have enabled Taiwanese franchises to thrive in competitive global markets. Through initiatives such as the Taiwan Franchise Pavilion at global expos and targeted matchmaking programs, TAITRA has showcased the ingenuity, quality, and cultural appeal of Taiwanese franchises. This has led to the successful entry of Taiwanese brands into major markets across Asia, the Gulf, and beyond. Taiwan Pavilion at the Arab Franchise Expo showcased diverse array of brands across food and beverage, lifestyle, and service industries, aiming to connect with investors and franchise enthusiasts from the Arab and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. From innovative bubble tea brands to cutting-edge tech-based services, TAITRA has successfully positioned Taiwanese businesses as industry leaders, making them highly sought-after franchise opportunities in Asia and the Middle East. J&J Fried Chicken, Bling House-Taiwan traditional sweet Liang Gao, NICE Nine- Taiwan dual sauces curry rice, ICE UNA- Taiwan’s Unique snow ice, Mizusawa Milk Bubble Tea Café and Hairing- the Total Solution Provider of Scalp Care were the brands Highlighted at the Taiwan pavilion. The “Best Franchise Promotion Partner in Asia” award reflects TAITRA’s tireless efforts to create opportunities for Taiwanese franchisors to expand their reach and establish a presence in diverse markets. By connecting Taiwanese businesses with potential franchisees and investors, TAITRA has played a pivotal role in fostering growth, innovation, and cross-border collaboration. Accepting the award, Angela C. S. Hsiao, Director, Taiwan Trade Center, Dubai (representative office of TAITRA) stated: “This recognition as the ‘Best Franchise Promotion Partner in Asia’ is a tremendous honor. It underscores our commitment to promoting Taiwanese excellence and innovation on the global stage. We thank the Arab Franchise Expo organizers for this recognition and look forward to furthering our efforts to connect Taiwanese brands with the world.” Arab Franchise Awards 2024 Dubai winners with the Chief Guest Dr Easa Al Bastaki , President of the University of Dubai As a premier event in the global franchise calendar, the Arab Franchise Expo brought together leading franchisors, franchisees, and investors from around the world. The event celebrated innovation and excellence in franchising, with TAITRA’s win highlighting Taiwan’s growing influence in the global franchise market. Taiwan Delegation interacting at the Franchise Investment Summit with the Investors at the Franchise Investment Summit held alongside with Arab Franchise Expo 2024 With this accolade, TAITRA is poised to continue its mission of promoting Taiwan’s franchise industry while strengthening its presence in key international markets. The organization remains dedicated to fostering innovation, building strategic partnerships, and empowering Taiwanese businesses to succeed globally. This recognition at the Arab Franchise Expo reaffirms TAITRA’s position as a driving force in the international franchise landscape and a true ambassador of Taiwanese entrepreneurial excellence. About TAITRA:The Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) is a non-profit organization committed to promoting Taiwan’s trade globally. With over 60 offices worldwide, TAITRA facilitates trade and business opportunities for Taiwanese enterprises across diverse sectors, including franchising. WATCH TAITRA VIDEO AT ARAB FRANCHISE EXPO 2024 – DUBAI
Dr. Easa Al Bastaki, The President of the University of Dubai,Delivering the Key note speech at The Arab Franchise Awards event at the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 ,Dubai The Arab Franchise Expo 2024 is set to be an extraordinary convergence of franchise business leaders, investors, and innovators, showcasing the vast potential of franchise opportunities in the Arab world and beyond at the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 in Dubai. This year’s keynote speaker, Dr. Easa Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai inspired with challenged the region’s franchise leaders with his progressive vision. In his highly anticipated keynote address, Dr. Al Bastaki will emphasize the importance of Arab franchise brands expanding into international markets. “The world is evolving rapidly, and now is the time for Arab franchises to extend their influence globally,” Dr. Al Bastaki noted. “Expanding our homegrown brands will not only showcase the innovative and cultural richness of our region but will significantly contribute to increasing GDP, enhancing economic resilience, and promoting bilateral trade.” Dr. Al Bastaki, a pioneer in promoting the concept “Made in UAE – Expand Globally,” addressed delegates from 30 countries at the Arab Franchise Awards Night held aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2, which ran alongside the Arab Franchise Expo 2024. The Expo, organized by the Arab Business Media Group and chaired by the legendary media personality Khaled Almaeena, featured participation from 30 countries and 200 distinguished brands. This premier event facilitated the exchange of franchise insights and culminated in AED 200 million worth of deals signed at the “Arab Franchise Investment Summit” on the second day. Dr. Al Bastaki’s extensive background in academia and leadership further cements his expertise on the subject. As President of the University of Dubai, he has been a pivotal force in advancing education and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in the UAE. His keynote address focused on strategies for sustainable growth, the advantages of cross-border franchising, and how Arab brands can leverage global partnerships to enhance their international footprint. Winners of the Arab Franchise Awards 2024 with Chief Guest D. Easa Al Bastaki, The President of the University of Dubai, and Khaled Almaeena, Chairman of the Arab Business Media Group, UAE This year Franchise “Hall of fame” awards winners were ADNOC Franchise and Galadari Food & Beverages Company. The Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) won the -“Best Franchise Promotion Partner in Asia”, Barns Café of Saudi won Multiple awards such as ”Super Coffee Franchise Brand of the Year and “Best Franchise Support Department of the Year” and Mohamed Al Zain of Barns café won the “ Best CEO of the Year awards” , Dodo Brands won the ”Franchisor in Technology & Innovation in QSR industry of the Year”award , Fashion TV won the “Promising Franchise Brands of the Year” award, Albert Kong of Singapore Asiawide Franchise won the “Lifetime Achievement Award” Dennys UAE won the “International Restaurant Franchise of the Year award”, “Business Kids” of Mexico “Kids Innovative Franchise of the Year” ES Governance of Brazil won the “Innovator in Franchise Compliance and Governance ’award, Sary Hamway of The Franchise Trainer won the Best “ Franchise Manuals & Training”Company “ of the Year award,Gourmandise of Tunisia won the “Regional Pastry Franchisor of the Year Award” Dr Costi-House of Beauty won the ”Best Innovative Healthcare franchise of the year” ,7th Heaven of India “Fastest Growing Franchise Bakery chain”award, “Cleanzy” of Morocco won the “Innovative Laundry Franchise Brand of the Year” , Malika Lamamra won the “International Women Franchise Consultant of the Year from Europe, “Top Franchise.com won the “Best Franchise Technology Platform of the Year”, Franchise Ready of Australia won the “International Franchise Consultancy firm of the year” Rym (Bedoui) Ayari,Founder, WeFranchiz won the “Women in Franchise Innovation Award” , Nguyen Van Phi of Vietnam , VFLN won the “ Women Franchise Leader of the Year Award” ,World Franchise Associates won the “International Franchise Development Company” of the Year award , FranGlobal won the “ International Franchise Entry Specialist of the Year” , Melissa Murray of Bird & Bird,UAE won the ”Franchise Lawyer of the Year”award, Action Coach won the ”Business Coaching Franchise” of the Year Award, Xiao Long Kan won the “Best Chinese Franchise Restaurant of the Year Award ” ,Thaalam media won the Best “Franchise Media Brand of the Year” Sales Geek won the “Sales Coaching franchise of the year”Award, Zalomi electronics won the “The Green Tech Franchise of the Year”, Bricks 4 Kids won the Best kids’ “STEM Innovation and Impact Franchise of the Year” , Ture Gamers won the “Best Gaming Franchise of the Year” and a Plaque of Honor was Presented to Aysha April Añonuevo recognition of her exceptional support, organization, and coordination of the Arab Franchise Expo event. Khaled Almaeena, Chairman of the Arab Business Media Group FZC LLC, Delivering the opening note at the Arab Franchise Awards in Dubai, UAE The Arab Franchise Expo 2024 serves as an essential platform for industry experts, franchise owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs to network and gain valuable insights from seasoned professionals. Attendees were introduced to successful franchise models, the latest market trends, and key opportunities for expansion. Dr. Al Bastaki’s speech was undoubtedly a highlight, offering practical guidance for brands poised to embark on their global expansion journey.
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.
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.
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
Dubai: As OrderUp eyes expanding to cities across the U.S., it’s working on setting up digital franchises—online food-ordering websites maintained by people in mid-size cities. OrderUp, the Canton-based startup that facilitates ordering food from restaurants online, faces stiff competition from such bigger, national companies as GrubHub and Seamless. But in 2013, as OrderUp eyes expanding to cities across the U.S., its focus isn’t on competing directly with the reach of GrubHub. Instead, it’s working on setting up digital franchises—online food-ordering websites maintained by people in mid-size cities who partner with OrderUp, and then work with restaurants and take-out joints to offer meal specials and deals to hungry patrons who would rather place delivery orders online than by phone. In other words, forget spending close to $450,000 to open your own brick-and-mortar location of your favorite fast-food restaurant. For $42,550, you can open your own business as an OrderUp franchisee: OrderUp handles all the technology: building and managing interactive menus and providing 24-hour call center support to restaurant owners. Franchisees sign up restaurants in their cities or towns, and work with the restaurants to offer promotions to customers. Franchisees then make between 10 and 14 percent on each order placed through a local OrderUp site, while OrderUp takes a cut of 5 percent of each order. “Technology has allowed people to start businesses that are a lot cheaper,” said OrderUp co-founder and CEO Chris Jeffery. “Why hasn’t franchising adopted that? We’d like to believe that we are leading the way of … being one of the inventors of the digital franchise opportunity rather than the brick and mortar.” From its office on the fourth floor of the refurbished Broom Factory on Boston Street, OrderUp has spent the last year positioning itself to be that leader. As of last summer, it had signed up more than 1,000 restaurants in 30 locations and more than 400,000 registered users who order from different OrderUp-affiliated sites. Of his team, 12 of whom work from the Baltimore office, Jeffery said he has “never felt more confident” in them. OrderUp recently hired Kristen Nilsen, formerly of LivingSocial, as the franchisee training and support manager. An additional 13 employees scattered across the U.S.—including Hawaii—staff OrderUp’s call center to ensure that online menus stay updated and online orders are processed correctly.
Shaquille O’Neal’-Former NBA Hall of Fame Dubai: Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken is going places, well currently it’s focusing its expansion into Texas. However, it is going places. With plans to have 50 locations in Texas and more across America, Shaq is building something big here. O’Neal is not new to the entrepreneurial business. He is very savvy. Shaq’s success in business is well-documented. The Lakers legend is worth well over $400 Million, however, we suspect it is far higher than that. His new enterprise, Big Chicken is taking the USA by storm. He recently brought a house in Houston to oversee the launch of various branches throughout the state. Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken can also be found in sporting arenas, including at this $1.5 stadium. If there is anything Shaq knows better than everyone else, it is sporting arenas. The 7-foot-tall Laker legend played to sell out crowds throughout his life.And it is this experience that gives him the confidence to put his Big Chicken in stadiums across the USA. Perhaps, most notably, it is now available in the New York Islanders’ new home, the UBS Arena.Yes, Shaq, cleverly played his cards and ensured that his Big Chicken would be available at the new $1.5 billion arena. Founded in 2018, Big Chicken is backed by a dream team of partners; JRS Hospitality, an accomplished Las Vegas-based ownership group; Authentic Brands Group, a multi-national, multi-billion-dollar brand development, marketing and entertainment company; and Hall of Fame basketball star Shaquille O’Neal. Big Chicken fuses O’Neal’s home-cooked childhood favorites with today’s trending flavors. From crispy chicken sandwiches and tenders to Cheez-It® crusted mac n’ cheese and hand-crafted ice cream shakes, each menu item tells a story all while offering guests an inside look into the life and personality of Shaquille O’Neal.