Global Franchise 9.3

39 GLOABL-FRANCHISE.COM Opportuni t ies 4 LONDON, U.K. London-based Japanese food chainWasabi Sushi & Bento, which also operates in New York, is planning expansion by franchising in 2025, after seeing a 16% sales boost in 2024. CEO Henry Birts highlights strong profit and margin growth, and is eyeing quality franchise partners in both the U.K. and the U.S., with sites already in the pipeline.Wasabi recently launched a loyalty app and is planning to roll out new features in February 2025. 5 LONDON, U.K. 61 current and formerVodafone franchisees in the U.K. have filed a £120 million legal claim against the telecom giant, alleging breaches of franchise agreements and good faith and seeking compensation for damages. They claim Vodafone’s business decisions since 2020 caused financial hardship, mental health issues, and potential bankruptcy, also alleging unpaid government relief, unfair rent charges, and losses of stores without explanation. The claim is now part of court proceedings that are likely to be contested. 7TURKEY, EUROPE US-based quick service restaurant companyYum! Brands has ended its franchise agreements with IS Holding’s subsidiary, IS Gida, which owns and operates all KFC and Pizza Hut outlets in Turkey, citing non-compliance with operational standards. This decision temporarily closes all 537 outlets, with Yum! pledging to restore its Turkish presence as soon as possible. Yum! Brands also reacquired the master franchise rights for Germany from IS Holding in December 2024, allowing the franchisor to resume direct management of this market, which remains unaffected by the Turkish franchise termination. IS Gida is contesting the claims, emphasizing its adherence to quality standards. 6 BANGALORE, INDIA U.S. dining and entertainment brand Dave & Buster’s has partnered with the Malpani Group to open its first franchise in Bangalore, India, marking the launch of its Asian expansion. The venue offers an exciting combination of gaming and dining experiences, and will be shortly followed by a second franchise in Mumbai. Dave & Buster’s has committed to opening 31 new stores in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and plans to launch five stores in Australia with NightOwl Entertainment. Antonio Bautista, chief international development officer for Dave & Buster’s, said India’s “vibrant economy has ranked the country in the top five globally.” 8AUSTRALIA & NEWZEALAND Current serving president of Krispy Kreme Australia & New Zealand, Nicola Steele becomes the brand’s new CEO, in a global leadership team reshuffle designed to drive growth and expand its international franchise model. With more than 15 years’ experience within the company, Steele is focused on modernizing production. Dave Skena steps into the chief growth officer role to lead omni- channel growth and marketing and Raphael Duvivier becomes president of international, targeting expansion in Europe and Latin America. “As we grow, these leadership changes will result in both a bigger and better Krispy Kreme,” says CEO Josh Charlesworth. “India, with its dynamic culture and growing appetite for premium entertainment, is the perfect market for our brand. Bangalore, known for its energy and innovation, is an ideal city to launch this journey” 4 5 8 6 7