Gourmet Gulf, a leading food and beverage (F&B) company in the Middle East, has announced four new F&B franchise partnerships for the region.    

The brands, all leaders in their respective cuisine categories, include two highly recognised franchises from the US:  Texas De Brazil – a fine dining Brazilian steakhouse featuring southern Brazilian cuisine; and Panda Express, the largest fast casual Asian restaurant chain in the world, serving gourmet Chinese food.   

In addition, Gourmet Gulf brings to the region Dalloyau, a high-end Parisian café concept with a history dating back to 1682 and worldwide recognition for exceptional patisserie, macaroons and fine French cuisine.  

The fourth franchise to be announced by Gourmet Gulf is Azkadenya, a restaurant founded and grown in Jordan, serving a contemporary version of traditional Arabic cuisine from the region.  

Azkadenya is expected to enjoy particular resonance with Khaleeji residents and visitors to the UAE, a statement said.

Gourmet Gulf currently holds the exclusive development and franchise rights to top-tier brands including California Pizza Kitchen, Morelli’s Gelato, YO! Sushi and Hummingbird Bakery, and is rapidly expanding its operations across the region, it said.
 
Sami Daud, executive chairman of Gourmet Gulf, said:  “The food and hospitality industry in the Middle East continues to grow at one of the fastest rates in the world, and while the opportunities are significant in the region, there is increasing demand for effective and experienced operators on the ground.  Gourmet Gulf continues to be partner of choice for some of the world’s most successful F&B brands, whether niche or mainstream, and our latest range of partnerships is testament to that.”

Delivering on an expansion strategy that will see over 100 outlets in operation by 2020, Gourmet Gulf is gaining significant presence throughout the Middle East.  A joint venture partnership in late 2013 with Majid Al Futtaim Ventures - the project development arm of retail, shopping and entertainment giant Majid Al Futtaim, is further enabling Gourmet Gulf to scale operations and expand in the region, it said.

The company expects to open 14 additional outlets this year focusing its expansion in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, followed by a further 18 outlets in 2015.  - TradeArabia News Service