The teppanyaki-style dining franchise has revealed a 53 per cent increase in its international footprint, with restaurants opening in Egypt, Mexico and Pakistan this year.
The global restaurateur has confirmed multi-market franchise agreements signed in Egypt (five restaurants), Pakistan (three restaurants), and a single-unit agreement in Mexico. This brings its total number of restaurants to 29 across its global portfolio upon completion in the coming years.
As part of the new agreements, restaurants showcasing Benihana’s teppanyaki dining experience will open this year in Cairo, Lahore and Mexico City. Benihana’s strategic expansion coincides with the brand’s 55th anniversary this year, in which time it has grown to be synonymous for its fast-paced performance of chopping and juggling of food by personal chefs.
Expansion in the restaurant’s global footprint follows investment by Minor International, which acquired a 75 per cent stake in Benihana last year. Following the acquisition Richard Mackay, formerly of Wagamama and Nozomi, was appointed as managing director and has been spearheading the business and its vast expansion programme.
Richard said, “With the strong support and vision of Minor International, the Benihana Board of Directors and a strategic global network, we have embarked on an aggressive expansion of the brand to take Benihana into the future. We are by no means resting on our laurels with this recent success and continue to identify new partnerships, with
a particular focus on opportunities in Continental Europe.
“The expansion plan is supported by a new, experienced development team across property, procurement, marketing and branding to help secure a further 55-year success story. With a five-year growth plan in action to open more than 40 new restaurants we are excited to share this exciting journey with our guests and partners.”
