Darden Franchisee to Open 60 Restaurants in Middle East

The Middle East remains a popular destination for U.S. brands.

As reported in the Wall Street Journal, Darden Restaurants, Inc. said Tuesday it reached an agreement with franchise operator Americana Group to develop at least 60 of its restaurants in the Middle East.The operator of Olive Garden, Red Lobster and LongHorn Steakhouse chains said the agreement calls for Americana to put in place restaurants in countries such as Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Financial terms of the agreement weren't disclosed.

The number of  restaurants in the Middle East operated by Americana totals a staggering 1,200 units

The operator of Olive Garden, Red Lobster and LongHorn Steakhouse chains said the agreement calls for Americana to put in place restaurants in countries such as Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Financial terms of the agreement weren't disclosed. "The Middle East is an attractive, growing market that has shown a strong affinity for American brands, especially American dining brands," said Darden Chairman and Chief Executive Clarence Otis.

About the Author: Ed Teixeira has over 35 years of franchise industry experience as a franchise executive and franchisee. He has served as a franchise executive in the c-store, manufacturing and home healthcare industries and has licensed franchises in Asia, Europe and South America. Ed operates FranchiseKnowHow  which provides information and advice to prospective and existing franchisees and franchisors. He publishes newsletters for the franchise community.