The Dairy Queen system, part of Berkshire Hathaway, announced plans to expand the brand’s presence in the Middle East with a multiunit development deal for DQ Grill & Chill restaurants and DQ Treat stores.
Durra Khaled For Foodstuffs Co., a subsidiary of KMGC, signed a long-term franchise agreement with the Dairy Queen system and plans to develop more than 20 DQ Grill & Chill restaurants and DQ Treat stores throughout the country of Kuwait over the next five years.
DQ Grill & Chill restaurants are planned to open by mid-2015 featuring signature burgers, chicken sandwiches, and a variety of salads and sandwiches along with the full menu of DQ treats. The menu will mirror other countries in the region. The first DQ Treat only stores are expected to open in 2015 as well and will feature the soft-serve products that have made the Dairy Queen system an icon in the industry, such as signature Blizzard Treats, soft-serve cones with the curl on top, sundaes, and other treats.
“As we prepare to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the DQ brand next year, we are building on our global brand equity as well as looking forward to developing future growth opportunities in the region,” says Brad Houser, executive vice president of international development “We are thrilled to be re-entering the Kuwait market and partnering with Durra Khaled For Foodstuffs Co., a group that brings a wealth of business experience through its diverse portfolio.”
International Dairy Queen currently has more than 6,300 locations, 1,394 of which are located in 25 countries outside the U.S. and Canada.
