Duck Donuts announced the continuation of its international expansion with the signing of two master franchise agreements, awarding the rights to develop and sub franchise in the countries of Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Anjal Arabia Trading & Contracting Co. is set to open 10 locations throughout Saudi Arabia over the next five years. The first location, which is expected to open early 2020, will be in the country’s capital, Riyadh. Gold Peak Coffee Shop LLC has also signed a master franchise agreement to sub franchise and bring Duck Donuts locations to the UAE, with the first store planned for the city of Dubai.
“We are delighted to enter into this relationship with Anjal Arabia Trading & Contracting Co. and Gold Peak Coffee Shop LLC, expanding our Duck Donuts brand to countries that demonstrate a strong family culture and an enjoyment for coffee and sweets,” says Russ DiGilio, Duck Donuts founder and CEO. “Through this master franchise agreement, we believe this will continue to generate interest in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), giving us the opportunity to further enhance the Duck Donuts presence in the Middle East.”
Expanded Duck Donuts to the Middle East aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, a plan to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependence on oil, diversify its economy, and develop public service sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation and tourism. Vision 2030 has made the partnership with Duck Donuts more accessible. The development will also contribute to broadening the spectrum of job opportunities within an already thriving and diversified economy.
“We believe in the idea that a visit to Duck Donuts is about having a unique experience in addition to consuming an excellent quality product,” says Mohammed Alshehri, Duck Donuts Kingdom of Saudi Arabia general manager. “The fact that the donuts are made to order in front of you makes them the ultimate in freshness and deliciousness.”
“We love the always fresh and customizable approach,” adds Mohammed Albaqami, Duck Donuts master franchisee of UAE. “This will be a totally new concept for the Saudi and UAE consumer and one we’re sure will become a major success within the region as well as a chief competitor in the donut and coffee industry.”
Currently, Duck Donuts operates in 83 locations across 26 states and two countries, including its first international location in Santiago Chile.
