With its cult status firmly entrenched in its home state of California, and in a growing number of outlets in the United States, the Fatburger fast-casual chain has set its sights on overseas markets.
The maiden international voyage will involve the launch of 25 units in China and adjacent territories by 2010, with the first restaurant scheduled to open in September at the Venetian hotel and casino in Macao. At about the same time, a second unit is slated to open in Hong Kong. Meantime, two other locations are scheduled to open in Beijing in 2008.
Fatburger, which prides itself on serving fresh, made-to-order burgers, also is eyeing expansion into Japan, the United Kingdom and United Arab Emirates. With 52 franchised stores and 35 company-owned locations in the U.S. and Canada, the Santa Monica, Calif.-based chain plans to open 24 additional stores stateside by the end of 2007.
Source: Tom Johnston on 6/19/2007 for Meatingplace.com