Johnny Rockets China plan signed off

Johnny Rockets has signed the largest development deal in its history: for 100 restaurants in China.

Johnny Rockets has entered into a partnership with a joint venture between AUM Hospitality and its parent Parkson Retail Group.  The first restaurant will open in 2016. AUM Hospitality is a multi-brand food and beverage developer and currently works as franchise partner and operator for Johnny Rockets in Malaysia.  Parkson Retail Group is a member of a conglomerate based in Malaysia and a department store operator with an extensive network of more than 130 stores, including over 60 in the China market.

The same companies are partnering in the rollout of 1500 Quiznos sandwich stores across China.

The initial plan is to open stores within Parkson department store complexes, which will also likely feature Quiznos and other food brands as Parkson builds a food-anchored retail concept in China.

Scott Chorna, SVP of international development for Johnny Rockets, said AUM Hospitality’s success in the food and beverage industry and Parkson Retail Group’s proven track record in operating major retail outlets, made for an ideal partnership for his company’s Chinese entry.

“Moreover, there is a strong demand in China for American brands as well as a growing middle class population with more spending power. Our partners have a keen sense of consumer preferences and shopping habits.

“While they will be showcasing Johnny Rockets all American menu including our world famous made-to-order hamburgers and hand-spun shakes as well as our unique signature guest experience that includes dancing servers, they will also be able to offer regional tastes and flavors to our extensive menu items,” Chorna said.

Johnny Rockets has already launched successful development partnerships in the Philippines, Malaysia, Korea and Indonesia.

Johnny Rockets’ franchise partners currently operate more than 125 restaurants outside the US and the brand’s global strategy is to double that number by 2017.