Fast-casual restaurant concept Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers opened its first international location in the Dubai Mall in the United Arab Emirates. The restaurant chain’s second international location will open at the Mall of the Emirates in the coming weeks. Tastebuds Group owns and operates the restaurants and the franchisee plans to drive Freddy’s growth throughout the Middle East by opening locations in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman and Qatar.
Freddy’s worked to ensure a seamless transition as the concept entered a new country by adapting to the local culture in various aspects including training protocols, hours of operation, menu items offered and portion size, among others
“Identifying which menu items and processes to uphold or alter were critical for our long-term success and further growth internationally,” says Ben Hesse, vice president of training and people development for Freddy’s. “We look forward to delivering the Freddy’s experience throughout the Middle East.
Earlier this year, Freddy’s entered into the nontraditional space for the first time. Additionally, in 2018, Freddy’s introduced a smaller restaurant prototype with an updated kitchen design that maintains volume capacity to allow new and existing franchisees innovative ways to expand their portfolio with the brand.