IHOP Opens First Restaurant In Kuwait, Expanding Brand’s Presence In The Middle East

DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), parent company of Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar ^® and IHOP ^® Restaurants, today announced that IHOP, the iconic brand famous the world over for its pancakes, omelettes and breakfast items as well as delicious lunch and dinner choices, opened its first location in Kuwait on February 16 ^th, expanding its presence in the Middle East as part of a multi-restaurant franchise agreement with M.H. Alshaya Co., a leading international franchise operator.

The new restaurant follows the success of two locations in Dubai, which Alshaya opened in September 2012. Alshaya’s multi-restaurant franchise agreement with IHOP Franchise Company, LLC, calls for 40 restaurants, with plans to expand to other countries across the Middle East including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain and Egypt.

The new Kuwait IHOP restaurant is located at the Grand Avenue, The Avenues, the largest shopping and entertainment complex in Kuwait.

“We are delighted to add Kuwait to the list of countries around the world that can now enjoy the IHOP experience,” said Julia Stewart, CEO, DineEquity Inc. “Alshaya has already done a tremendous job in successfully bringing our brand to Dubai. We congratulate them on this newest location and look forward to their future openings as they bring IHOP to even more countries in this thriving region.”

Stephen O’Connor, Vice President, Operations, Casual Dining, Alshaya, added, “The success of the IHOP story lies in its combination of high food quality, value and excellent service. As we continue to expand the brand across the Middle East, we are sure IHOP will become a firm family favorite with customers in Kuwait, just as it has become in Dubai.”

“As the new IHOP restaurants in Dubai have already proven, there is a strong appetite throughout the region for great food and service with strong value,” said John Merkin, Vice President, Operations and International, International House of Pancakes, LLC. “With the unparalleled regional expertise, operational capabilities, and marketing knowledge Alshaya provides as our franchisee, we are confident that their new location in Kuwait will be equally successful.”

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