PizzaExpress acquires UAE franchise operations

Global dining brand PizzaExpress has acquired its franchise operation in the United Arab Emirates, as part of its expansion programme.

With seven PizzaExpress restaurants in the UAE located across a range of locations, the Italian-inspired brand celebrates its 50^th anniversary this year.

PizzaExpress is due to open another new site this summer in Abu Dhabi's World Trade Centre Mall, which will be its second Jazz@PizzaExpress concept in the Middle East.

In the UK, PizzaExpress has almost 450 restaurants, as well as a further 77 restaurants in 13 markets around the world. PizzaExpress in the UAE was previously franchised by Jordana Restaurants.

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PizzaExpress International managing director Luke Davies said: "This acquisition builds on our strategy to grow PizzaExpress into a truly global brand, and I’m delighted to bring our UAE operation into the core PizzaExpress estate. We plan to invest further in the UAE over the next five years as we double the number of PizzaExpress sites across the region.

“By delivering great quality, fresh food, and the very best customer experience, I’m confident of achieving our ambition to become the number one Western casual dining brand in our chosen international markets.”

Peter Boizot founded the brand with his first restaurant on Wardour Street in London’s Soho in 1965. PizzaExpress currently has six restaurants in Dubai: in Al Safa, Ibn Battuta, World Trade Centre, Bin Sougat, Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Kidzania at Dubai Mall, as well as one restaurant in Fujairah.