Mama Fu’s Asian House—an Austin-based restaurant concept offering a menu inspired by the cuisines of Vietnam, Korea, China, Japan, and Thailand—is looking to introduce the concept to the United Arab Emirates, opening the first location in the first quarter of 2015.
Mama Fu’s franchise development partner is GGICO Gourmet LLC, a subsidiary of Gulf General Investment Company (GGICO), the Dubai Financial Market listed public shareholding company established in 1973.
GGICO is a widely diversified conglomerate, with activities in oil, manufacturing, insurance, services, hospitality, retail, and real estate development. The group has recently expanded on retail restaurant operations through its fully owned subsidiary GGICO Gourmet LLC.
“We are excited to bring Mama Fu’s Asian House to the UAE,” says Hassan Oweida, chief operating officer of GGICO Gourmet LLC. “Combining our extensive development and foodservice background with Mama Fu’s experience, unique brand, and flavorful menu will ensure that GGICO Gourmet delivers the best quality Asian food in the Gulf region.”
With 18 locations in five states throughout the U.S., Mama Fu’s agreement with GGICO Gourmet marks the company’s first international development deal.
“Taking a brand international is big for any company, but we have experience doing it before with other concepts”, says Randy Murphy, president and CEO of Mama Fu’s. “We couldn’t have partnered with a better operator in the Gulf Region than the team and company behind GGICO Gourmet—Mama Fu’s will truly be on a world stage in the United Arab Emirates.”
Having recently opened a smaller store model focusing more on takeout, delivery, and catering, the restaurant will make available both versions of restaurant styles open in the UAE, offering greater variety and flexibility for franchise partners as well as consumers.
