Global Franchise Group, the franchisor of Pretzelmaker, announced Tuesday that the first two Pretzelmaker® stores have opened in Perm and Kirov, Russia. The openings of the stores signify GFG’s continued international expansion of the Pretzelmaker brand in new markets. Through an agreement with Alendvic, a fast food brand operator in Russia, Pretzelmaker is now operating in the food court at Stolica Mall, one of the biggest and most popular destinations in the city of Perm, and in the Jam Mall, the first modern mall in the city of Kirov.

“We see enormous potential in the Russian restaurant market and Aldenvic has a proven track record of managing successful international dining concepts,” says President and CEO of GFG Chris Dull. “Pretzels are a snack that appeals to people across the globe, and the opening of our new Pretzelmaker locations in Russia are the start of something big for us. We look forward to introducing our delicious pretzels and drinks to the Russian public.”

Quick service restaurants are seeing growth in the Russia market, and Pretzelmaker is tapping into this potential with a proven multi-unit operator. Alendvic has 87 outlets and eight brands in its portfolio, and is the top fast food chain in the Volga federal district of Russia. The company has long-term relationships and international franchising agreements with Baskin Robbins, Southern Fried Chicken, and the Russian brand, Shokoladinca.

“We are proud to open the first Pretzelmaker stores in Russia and hope to open additional locations in other districts of Russia,” says Alexander Nikiforov, founder of Alendvic and general director. “The culture of eating out is constantly changing in Russia, and people are more inclined to try new cuisines. The concept of Pretzelmaker is unique and very popular with the younger demographic and families looking for a tasty and fresh snack.”