Iryna Ivanova of Denny’s Middle East Receiving the International Restaurant Brand of the Year award from the Chief Guest Khaled Almaeena
In a grand ceremony at the Gulf Franchise Awards in Abu Dhabi, Galadari Foods was elevated to the Hall of Fame, a testament to its remarkable contributions to the region’s franchising sector. This honor was a highlight of the Gulf Franchise Awards ceremony, coinciding with the Gulf Franchise Expo. The event was a vibrant celebration, acknowledging the significant achievements of franchise entrepreneurs and leaders in 2024, shining a spotlight on the most influential personalities and brands in the GCC’s franchising arena.
The Gulf Franchise Awards, integral to the Gulf Franchise Expo, concluded its latest session in Abu Dhabi, offering a stage to salute excellence in the franchising industry. This assembly of industry vanguards, innovators, and notable brands represented a pivotal moment, underscoring those who have profoundly influenced the franchising landscape across the GCC nations. Hosted at the prestigious Royal Le Meridian Hotel and organized by the Arab Business Media Group, the event drew together over 100 brands, 60 franchising entities, and attendees from 20 countries, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and experiences.
The proceedings commenced with an insightful keynote speech by Khaled Almaeena, the honored guest, who delved into the critical role of Gulf-based, indigenous franchise brands in shaping the local economy and their prospects for international growth.
Winners of the Gulf Franchise Awards 2024 with the Chief Guest Khaled Almaeena in Abu Dhabi
For over six decades, Denny’s Restaurants have been synonymous with exceptional dining, offering guests outstanding meals at remarkable value. This commitment to excellence propels Denny’s ongoing mission to evolve into the world’s premier, most esteemed local restaurant brand. Renowned as an iconic brand, Denny’s stands out as one of the most rapidly expanding family-dining chains worldwide, including significant growth as a leading full-service family restaurant in the Gulf region.
The origins of Denny’s trace back to 1953 when Harold Butler and Richard Jezak inaugurated a donut stand named Danny’s Donuts. Butler articulated a visionary pledge: “To serve the best cup of coffee, make the best donuts, provide the best service, offer the best value, and remain open 24 hours a day.” From those humble beginnings, the establishment has transformed into a globally recognized restaurant chain, now known as Denny’s, with more than 1,700 outlets. It has steadfastly upheld Mr. Butler’s founding commitment, earning a distinguished reputation for its dedication to quality and service.
Upon receiving an award, Iryna Ivanova expressed gratitude, stating, “We are humbled and committed to continuing the legacy of delivering the finest food.” This acknowledgment serves as a testament to Denny’s enduring dedication to excellence and its unwavering promise to its patrons.
Adnoc Distribution won the Hall of Fame and Bird and Bird of the UK won the ‘Best Franchise Law Firm’ award. T. K. Khaleel of Artisan Bakers won the “Baker of the Year award” and FranGlobal won the best Global Franchise Expansion firm award of the year for their contribution towards the franchise industry. Chocolate Bash of Los Angeles won the Promising Franchise Brand of the year award
Malaysia Based Pernas won the Best International Government Agency in Franchising and Dr Radzali Hassan, Chairman of Malaysia Franchise Association won the Hall of Fame.
The awards ceremony recognized several standout achievers, including Mohamed Al Zain, CEO of Barns Café, who was bestowed the “Franchise Leadership Excellence and Growth Achievement Award.” Sultan Al Mutlaq, also from Barns Café, was acclaimed as the ‘Franchise Leader of the Year.’ The “Green Franchise of the Year” award went to Zalomi Electronics, while Go Gold Jewellery was celebrated as the Franchise Startup of the Year. The event also paid homage to eminent consultants in the franchising domain, such as Abeer Juliah of National Franchises, Saudi Arabia, and Essam Lootah of the UAE, for their pivotal contributions. Notably, Vasil Mansurulla of Top Franchise secured the best digital platform of the year award, and Forty Fruity was honored as the Healthy Juice Café Franchise of the Year. Moreover, IRMG Mena was lauded as the Franchise Development Company of the Year, Essence as the Franchise Supplier of the Year, and World Franchise Associates as the International Consulting Firm of the Year. Additional recognitions included United Investments Firm as the Best Franchise Investment Firm and Sunil Malhotra of B-Chain for Franchise Consulting Mergers & Acquisitions, with Action Coach receiving the “Business Coaching Franchise of the Year” award.
