Steak n Shake, a market leader in the premium burgers segment of the restaurant industry, will open 40 resturants in the UAE under an area development agreement with the Saleh Bin Lahej Group.

 

This agreement represents the initial expansion of the "better burger" brand outside the continental US, a statement said.

  

The Saleh Bin Lahej Group is in the vanguard of international franchise operators of major restaurant brands such as Chili's, Macaroni Grill, Black Canyon Asian Cuisine, El Chico Mexican Restaurant, The Pizza Company, and Cantina Laredo. 

 

The new partnership further develops the Saleh Bin Lahej Group Hospitality Division, which has grown impressively in recent years as demand for international brands in the Middle East has burgeoned.  

 

Sardar Biglari, chairman of Biglari Holdings, which owns Steak n Shake, said: "We are excited about turning Steak n Shake into a global brand. I am honoured to be partners with Mohammed Saleh Bin Lahej, a visionary who is taking an iconic American brand to the UAE as our introductory international partner. 

 

"I am delighted he will make Steak n Shake history by opening in UAE, a country that is simply remarkable for its achievements. UAE will be the springboard from which we plan to grow the Steak n Shake brand in multiple dimensions and in many other countries."  

 

Mohammed Saleh Bin Lahej, group chief executive officer of Saleh Bin Lahej Group, said: "I am confident that our partnership with Steak n Shake will prove to be prosperous and will mark a notable achievement for both parties.  It is our pleasure to carry such a reputable brand in the fast casual industry here in the UAE.  We have always taken pride in our company with the ability to pioneer breakthrough brands that have continuously allowed us to serve and connect with a diverse range of customers." 

 

Steak n Shake expects to open its first location in Dubai during 2013.  

 

Steak n Shake is a classic American brand serving premium burgers and shakes. Founded in 1934 in Normal, Illinois, Steak n Shake is the leader in the fast casual "better burger" segment of the restaurant industry, offering its famous, original Steakburger and its delicious hand-dipped Milk Shakes. - TradeArabia News Service