Global dining brand, PizzaExpress, today announces the acquisition of its franchise operation in the United Arab Emirates, as it embarks on an ambitious expansion programme.
The iconic Italian-inspired brand, which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary, has seven PizzaExpress restaurants in the UAE. They are situated in a diverse mix of locations, from shopping malls to residential neighbourhoods, and include the renowned Jazz@PizzaExpress in Dubai.
PizzaExpress is due to open another new site this summer in Abu Dhabi’s World Trade Centre Mall, which will be its second Jazz@PizzaExpress concept, building on its success as a live music venue.
In the UK, PizzaExpress is a leader in the casual dining sector with almost 450 restaurants, as well as a further 77 restaurants in 13 markets around the world.
Luke Davies, managing director of PizzaExpress International, said, “This acquisition builds on our strategy to grow PizzaExpress into a truly global brand, and I’m delighted to bring our UAE operation into the core PizzaExpress estate. We plan to invest further in the UAE over the next five years as we double the number of PizzaExpress sites across the region.
“By delivering great quality, fresh food, and the very best customer experience, I’m confident of achieving our ambition to become the number one Western casual dining brand in our chosen international markets.”
PizzaExpress has been obsessed with pizza ever since its founder Peter Boizot opened his first restaurant on Wardour Street in London’s Soho in 1965. It was one of the first restaurants to adopt open kitchens where pizzaiolos stretch, toss and top the best handmade pizzas using fresh ingredients.
PizzaExpress currently has six restaurants in Dubai: in Al Safa, Ibn Battuta, World Trade Centre, Bin Sougat, Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Kidzania at Dubai Mall, as well as one restaurant in Fujairah.