Reem Al Bawadi Restaurant & Café, a themed family restaurant that is renowned for their authentic Middle Eastern cuisine and superb hospitality, launched its International franchising model at the ongoing Gulfood 2015 in Dubai, UAE.

The brand is planning to open an additional eight new branches over the next two years, worth more than $17.6 million, said a statement.

Ayman Abdel Jaber, chief executive officer, said: “Gulfood is providing us the ideal platform to launch our franchising opportunities as the event is welcoming numerous industry experts and investors, who are keen to get involved with local businesses and top-class concepts.

“Our brand has evolved over the last decade and now we are ready to offer interested parties the opportunity to share the success of our lovemark brand.”

The restaurant operates five branches in the UAE, one in Jeddah and will open another branch in Bahrain, Al Ain and second branch in Jeddah soon, serving more than 100,000 customers per month.  

“We see a huge potential for expansion in the coming two years and already have between six to eight international openings planned. We are aiming to target a mix of new markets and to fill-in market gaps and where opportunities arise,” added Jaber.

Reem Al Bawadi touched on their unique selling points of being a strong and differentiated brand with a broad appeal and unique experience. Many value the brand as a ‘home away from home’ with distinctive assets, innovative marketing and solid financials in the UAE managed by an experienced, results driven team.

The restaurant, with its relaxed and lively ambience is a preferred destination for business meetings, social gatherings, family get-togethers and celebrations of special occasions. It offers customers the pleasure of an all-day dining experience which makes it an apt place for both socializing and meetings.

By using advanced technology during service, like the use of hand held devices to take orders and walkie-talkies to communicate during service, the management can ensure and optimize operational efficiency.

A typical Reem Al Bawadi restaurant is around 8000-sq-ft which requires an approximate USD 2.2 million investment till outlet opening.

With a view to achieving a smooth and well aligned support system, Reem Al Bawadi has devised a systematic assistance programme which includes franchise support, architecture and design assistance, construction and equipment support, operational support, purchasing and training.

“We’ve ensured that the franchising setup is hassle free for the ease of all parties involved. After signing the formal agreement it normally takes four to six months to setup and start the entire operations and the initial agreement is for five years, with an option of renewing it further,” concluded Jaber. - TradeArabia News Service