Apparel Group signs GCC franchise deal for Sumo Sushi & Bento

UAE-based Japanese restaurant chain Sumo Sushi & Bento has announced a franchise agreement with fashion conglomerate Apparel Group to expand to 20 locations across the GCC.

Sumo said Apparel would focus on bringing the restaurant to its mall locations across the GCC.

The first location under the agreement will open on June 1 in Doha Festival City, with others to follow.

Sumo International Inc currently operates and franchises 15 restaurants across the UAE, Bahrain and Oman.

The company was founded in Dubai in the year 2000 and now has 140 employees with 500 across its franchises.

‘We are thrilled to work with Apparel Group and we believe they are the ideal partner to help us drive the expansion of Sumo Sushi & Bento in the fast growing GCC markets. To be recognized by Apparel Group as a strong brand, performing well with a reputation for quality food and service is very encouraging,” Darami Coulter, global marketing and communication manager, Sumo International Inc.

Apparel Group currently operates the regional franchises of brands including Tommy Hilfiger, Juicy Couture, Nautica, Aldo, Nine West, Aeropostale, Tim Hortons and Cold Stone Creamery.