Americana Restaurants International has finally entered the ever-growing Arabic QSR market after acquiring the exclusive license to operate the Lebanese business Malak Al Tawouk for 75 years. Americana is buying out all the franchisees of the Malak Al Tawouk brand in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in the strategically historic move, which is set to cost $20.8 million. This move is an indication of the company’s intentions to add more cuisines besides the international brands like KFC and Pizza Hut, which are currently part of its menu.
There are three outlets in Saudi Arabia and seven in the United Arab Emirates, which are set to be acquired in the deal, which is set to be completed by the end of February 2026. These outlets have an average revenue of just under $21 million, which is an indication of the strong financials of the business. As the saying goes, “If people are there, they will buy things.” This is, however, not the same Americana, as they are not just acquiring another business, but they are acquiring the “regional hero” brand, which has a large following of people who long for the taste of the street food of the Levant, with the support of the operational power of an international food company.
In the near future, Americana plans to rapidly roll out the Malak Al Tawouk brand in 13 countries in the MENA and CIS regions, utilizing its large infrastructure in the region. This partnership has the potential to become the model for many large food operators seeking to add local “hidden gems” to their portfolios of international brands, as analyzed by the industry. This partnership has also enabled the founders of Malak Al Tawouk to take their business to the next level, with the company being able to operate as an international food company with its true Lebanese identity remaining intact.
