hospitalitystyle.com

(February 2010) posted on Thu Feb 18, 2010 EST

Chains target Sri Lanka and Vietnam, respectively

More and more U.S.-based restaurant operators are looking to international markets to expand. The latest examples of that phenomenon: Papa Bello Enterprises is partnering with Thilanka Hotels and Resorts to develop and manage a trio of fast-casual concepts in Sri Lanka, while CKE Restaurants Inc. has signed a development agreement with the Mesa Group to open 25 Carl's Jr. restaurants in Vietnam.

The pact with Thalinka is Papa Bello's first overseas deal. The companies plan to open a minimum of 3 corporately owned multi-concept locales consisting of Papa Bello Pizza, Royal India Express and the Kebab Cafe units in Sri Lanka by the end of 2010.

“I have spent nearly a month in Sri Lanka over the past year and have seen firsthand the bountiful opportunities that this country offers,” said James Price, ceo of Papa Bello Enterprises. The stock market in Sri Lanka was up nearly 100 percent in 2009, which was one of the best performing markets in the world. Accordingly, I feel that the time is perfect to introduce Papa Bello and its brands to the people of Sri Lanka who are craving high quality, western style eateries.”

CKE's move into Vietnam, meantime, is part of an ongoing expansion of the Carl Jr. chain in Asia. The deal with Mesa Group covers the entire country of Vietnam, with the first Carl's Jr. restaurant scheduled to open in Ho Chi Minh City in April.

“Mesa's expertise and knowledge of the Vietnamese market, along with their extensive experience in supply chain management, distribution and real estate, make them the perfect partner to bring Carl's Jr. to Vietnam,” said Andy Puzder, CKE Restaurants' ceo. “The Carl's Jr. brand has a loyal following in Asia and we couldn't be more pleased than to introduce our great-tasting, premium, charbroiled burgers to the people of Vietnam.”

- Posted Feb. 18, 2010