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Private equity firm buys Johnny Rockets franchise

Johnny Rockets is an international restaurant franchise established almost 30 years ago in the state of California.

Dubai — Al Masah Capital has announced that its food and beverage private equity platform, Diamond Lifestyle Limited, has acquired Al Faris Restaurant, a UAE-based restaurant company that owns and operates as a Johnny Rockets franchisee in the UAE and Oman.

Johnny Rockets is an international restaurant franchise established almost 30 years ago in the state of California. The restaurants offer all-day dining, serving hamburgers, chicken and steak sandwiches, appetisers, fries, salads, shakes and desserts.

Al Faris Restaurant 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.

In addition to food court seating, the company’s current restaurants accommodate more than 1,100 seats spread over 296 tables. Johnny Rockets restaurants are present across the UAE in malls, high street locations and tourist areas.

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 hamburger market in the region. We are delighted to have added another landmark transaction to our portfolio of brands.” 

Amitava Ghosal, partner of Al Masah Capital and director of Diamond Lifestyle, said: “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.”

“Al Masah Capital is a 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.

— business@khaleejtimes.com