UK bakery brand reveals Gulf expansion plan

London-based The Hummingbird Bakery on Wednesday announced its first international franchise which will open 20 new outlets across the Middle East.

The company said it has signed a partnership with Daud Arabian for new branches in the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Lebanon and Egypt.

The first Hummingbird Bakery under the partnership is due to open in Dubai Mall on September 25, the company said in a statement.

Tarek Malouf, founder of The Hummingbird Bakery, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to now be in the final stages of becoming an international brand.

"We now look forward to the exciting challenge of bringing The Hummingbird Bakery’s brand of high quality American baking to the world.”

Daud Arabian is a subsidiary of The Daud Group of Oman and has a proven track record of bringing internationally recognised casual dining brands to the Middle East and India, the statement added.

The Daud Group’s portfolio of brands include California Pizza Kitchen, YO! Sushi, Morelli’s Gelato, Gourmet Burger Kitchen,Trader Vic’s, and Pinkberry.

Sami Daud, CEO, said: “We always seek to invest in brands that we see substantial, ready-made opportunities for within the Middle East. The Hummingbird Bakery is no exception. The company offers something completely unique both in terms of the character of the brand and the exceptionally high quality of its products.”

The Hummingbird Bakery, which currently operates five branches across London, is best known for its cupcakes.

The company said it will continue its international franchise programme and is in talks with prospective franchisees in Russia, India and China.