DALLAS, Nov. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Since Golden Chick first opened in 1967, the brand hasn't strayed far from the nest as growth was purposely limited to Texas and Oklahoma. But this year, the franchise is ready for major expansion in both the Middle East and Asia.
The first overseas restaurant opened September 5 in Amman, Jordan. The location is owned by Hasan Zoubi and operated by his brother-in-law, Ibrahim Alzubi, who was formerly with Marriott. Zoubi is a Jordan native and currently lives in Oklahoma.
"Over the last 20 years we've had numerous inquiries about expanding into the Middle East. We have been waiting until the right opportunity came along," says Mark Parmerlee, Chairman of Golden Companies. "Hasan has a successful Golden Chick restaurant in Oklahoma, and we are confident that his pilot restaurant in Amman will do well."
The brand's newest fans in Jordan are excited about the product quality and unforgettable flavor. Locals are excited for the signature Golden Tenders, which usually come with fries, gravy, and a drink.
Zoubi's friend, Tarek Samara, will soon open his first location in Egypt. Samara lives in Oklahoma, but his family in Egypt will help run the restaurant.
Deals are in progress for expansion in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and other Middle Eastern countries. Samara and Zoubi have master licenses with commitments to further the brand in these markets, which means the Middle East can expect to see a lot more of Golden Chick soon.
Golden Chick is also prepared to open restaurants in 10 Asian countries. The first location in China should open next year.
"Asia is hungry to experience American style food," says Parmerlee. "Golden Chick has an all-American menu with big flavors and unique offerings. Our quality, menu variety, service and environment set us apart from other American brands."
About Golden Chick
Golden Chick is a Southern style restaurant known for its signature Original Golden Tender™, a marinated whole chicken tenderloin that's hand-battered and cooked to a delicious golden perfection. Based out of Dallas, the restaurant chain has close to 100 locations throughout Texas and Oklahoma. The first international location opened in Amman, Jordan in the fall of 2011, and locations throughout the Middle East and Asia are slated to open soon. For more information, visit www.goldenchick.com.
SOURCE Golden Chick
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