9 November 2012
Global fast-food company Burger King will open its first restaurant in Cape Town during the first half of 2013, marking the beginning of its move into South Africa and the southern African region, the company said on Thursday.
Burger King is the second-largest fast-food hamburger chain in the world, serving around 11-million people daily from over 12 500 locations in 82 countries.
It has entered a joint venture with South African gaming and leisure group Grand Parade Investments to form Burger King South Africa.
Following the opening of the Cape Town restaurant will be a national roll-out of restaurants.
“The aggressive growth plans are expected to contribute significantly to the South African economy and create a significant number of jobs for South Africans over the next five years and beyond,” Grand Parade said in statement.
“The introduction of Burger King to South Africa will bring much-needed jobs and careers for our people and help in reducing the high unemployment rate,” said Grand Parade executive chairperson Hassen Adams.
“The City of Cape Town works hard to create a prosperous city that enjoys economic growth and development and job creation,” Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille said in the company’s statement.
“Foreign direct investment that boosts our city, and our country, is warmly welcomed.”
Burger King and Grand Parade had studied the southern African region and believed the time was right to move into South Africa, said Burger King’s president for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Jose Cil.
Burger King had partnered with Grand Parade for its financial resources, operational know-how in hospitality, and experience in running outlet-driven businesses.
The joint venture with Burger King was “a strategic move to enter the quick service restaurant market,” Adams said.
SAinfo reporter
