Abrakebabra founder gets franchise rights to burger chain
Abrakebabra founder Graham Beere has secured Irish franchise rights for an up-market British burger chain and plans to spend €5m this year opening six outlets.
Mr Beere, who co-owns Abrakebabra with Denis Desmond, said that under the terms of the franchise agreement they have to open 14 of the Gourmet Burger Kitchen outlets. He said he sees scope for 30 stores, which is likely to involve an investment in the region of €18m.
The first Irish outlet will open in Belfast at the end of next month, while others are planned this year for Dublin.
"I think this is going to be a big opportunity for us," Mr Beere said.
Last year Mr Beere and Mr Desmond secured the Irish rights for the UK-based Yo Sushi chain.
Mr Beere and Mr Desmond also operate the Bagel Factory franchise in Ireland.
- John Mulligan
