Spain-based Telepizza, a leading restaurant chain, today announces further expansion, with the opening of its first Iranian store in Tehran.

The company plans to open a further two stores by the end of the month. Telepizza signed a masterfranchise agreement with Momenin Investment Group last year; MIG will be investing EUR100 million in the next ten years.

The Tehran store opening marks the start of the latest phase of Telepizza's ambitious global expansion plans, becoming the first International QSR brand to enter the Iranian market and with 1,421 stores globally. Telepizza plans to build on this successful first launch with a further seven stores due to open in Tehran by the end of 2017 and 200 stores across Iran planned in the next 10 years.

The significant opportunities presented by Iran's large, young, population (more than 80 million people of which 65 per cent are below 36 years old), and highly fragmented competition, made the country an obvious choice for expansion.

"We are very proud of the inauguration of our two first Iranian stores. It is a great responsibility to become the first QSR chain in the country," said Pablo Juantegui, chairman and CEO of Telepizza Group. "At Telepizza, we are delighted to share with Iranian consumers the essence of our brand, bringing them the unique flavour of our pizzas, at any moment and place."

Telepizza International president, Giorgio Minardi, said: "The launch of our first Iranian outlet marks an exciting step in our international expansion which continues to gain momentum. Iran looks set to become a hugely important market for us, with significant room for growth. We know our innovative flavours and commitment to use only quality local Iranian ingredients, coupled with our outstanding customer service and great value will appeal to Iranian consumers.”

At launch, Telepizza brings its expertise and proven track record in marketing, delivery technology - including full service website and ordering app - franchising and supply chain management. Coupled with its franchisee operating strength and real estate and local management expertise, Telepizza is perfectly positioned to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by the emerging Iranian market.

Alongside classic pizzas, the Telepizza menu also features innovative Chef's signature pizzas such as the Nachos pizza, bringing exciting new flavours to the Iranian market and appealing to consumers' desire to 'try something different'. – TradeArabia News Service