Forrest runs into region

US-based chain Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurants has signed a 12-restaurant franchise agreement with Mubarak Al-Hassawi Restaurant Development Group.

The deal, projected to generate US $60 million in revenue, will witness openings in cities including Dubai and Kuwait. The Bubba Gump chain is currently present across the US in cities including New Orleans, New York City, Chicago, Santa Monica, Denver and Charleston.

The San Clemente based company currently has international restaurants in Bali, Cancun, Hong Kong, Manila, the Philippines, Osaka, and two locations in Tokyo, Japan. The Mubarak Al-Hassawi Group encompasses companies specialising in hospitality, real estate and industrial manufacturing.

Scott Barnett, CEO of Bubba Shrimp has revealed that the first restaurant will open in 18 months, and that 2007 revenue is estimated to reach US $170 million. The restaurants are also tipped to open in Egypt.

Inspired by the 1994 hit movie Forrest Gump, the restaurants will showcase authentic film memorabilia, and are expected to cater to local markets with menu options. Paying tribute to the movie's lead characters, the restaurants serve smoothies named Run Forrest Run and Jenny's Favourite, as well as dishes including the ‘fishwich', salmon and veggie skillet, Cajun shrimp and shrimp cocktail.

"Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. has demonstrated financial success as a restaurant concept that translates well internationally and is recognised worldwide. We look forward to introducing Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. to the Middle East," commented Ms. Fawzia Mubarak Al-Hassawi of Mubarak Al-Hassawi Restaurant Development Group, in a statement on the deal.

Winner of six Oscars, the film featured the character of Benjamin Buford ‘Bubba' Blue played by Mykelti Williamson as Forrest's army comrade. The men decide to go into the "shrimpin' business" together after they are discharged.

Bubba Shrimp will compete with well-established US brands in the region, including Chili's, T.G.I. Friday's, TGI, Fuddruckers and Johnny Rockets.

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