Cafe Rouge franchisor acquires Johnny Rockets

Al Masah Capital's F&B private equity platform, Diamond Lifestyle Limited has acquired Al Faris Restaurant LLC, a UAE-based restaurant company that owns and operates as a Johnny Rockets franchisee in the UAE and Oman.

Shailesh Dash, founder and CEO of Al Masah Capital and chairman of Diamond Lifestyle said: "Owning a global and reputable brand such as Johnny Rockets enhances our strategic profile and provides our company with a concrete foundation to reap the benefits of the lucrative hamburger market in the region.

"We are delighted to have added another landmark transaction to our rapidly growing portfolio of brands."

Johnny Rockets venues offer all-day dining, serving hamburgers, chicken and steak sandwiches, appetisers, fries, salads, shakes and desserts.

Al Faris Restaurant LLC launched its first Johnny Rockets restaurant in the UAE in 1996 in Jumeirah, Dubai. Today, Al Faris operates 14 restaurants across the UAE, of which eight are in Dubai, four in Abu Dhabi and two in Ras Al Khaimah.

"We are pleased to join forces with Al Masah Capital, a highly regarded partner who shares our vision and commitment to the MENA region. We are confident that this partnership will further promote the Johnny Rockets brand and expand our reach to customers wishing to indulge in our original, legendary hamburger experience,” said Scott Chorna, senior vice president of international development for Johnny Rockets.

In addition to food court seating, the company’s current restaurants accommodate more than 1100 seats spread over 296 tables.

Amitava Ghosal, partner of Al Masah Capital and director of Diamond Lifestyle added: "Our acquisition of Al Faris Restaurant complements our vision and further strengthens our platform offerings and extends our presence into the casual food-service market. We look forward to expanding the Johnny Rockets footprint in the UAE and Oman."

Diamond Lifestyle operates two other franchises in the UAE - Cafe Rouge and La Porte des Indes.