Franchising

Subway inks master agreement in Saudi Arabia

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December 2, 2021

A new Subway partnership in Saudi Arabia will nearly double the country's restaurants in the next six years. The deal was inked with Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co (Alhokair), the leading franchise retailer in Saudi Arabia, according to a press release.

The agreement kicks off a growth plan to nearly double Subway's footprint of 210 restaurants over the next six years by adding a minimum of 145 locations. It will also accelerate the integration of Subway's "Fresh Forward" restaurant design in the country, which is backed by the brand's digital-first strategy that provides guests with order ahead options.

"Today's announcement is another example of our refreshed approach to international growth," John Chidsey, Subway CEO, said in the release. "Through partnering with companies that have deep regional knowledge and proven success in the industry, such as Alhokair, we are strategically expanding and strengthening our global footprint around the world."

"We are committed to supporting leading global brands, such as Subway, and their expansion in Saudi Arabia by leveraging our regional expertise and success in deploying omnichannel capabilities, cementing our transition to a lifestyle retailer of choice in the Kingdom," Marwan Moukarzel, Alhokair CEO, said in the release. "The master franchise agreement with Subway will enhance and diversify our evolving food and beverage brand portfolio in the Kingdom. We look forward to capitalizing on a sizeable and growing network to deliver an improved and unique experience at quick service restaurants to meet the increased demand amongst guests in the region."

Subway operates nearly 40,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries.