Apparel Group Inks Dave Busters Development Deal For Stores In Six Middle East Countries

DALLAS -- The big-box entertainment and restaurant chain is starting its international development initiative with the signing of a master development deal for the Middle East.

Dave & Buster's Entertainment Inc. announced on Oct. 29 a franchise agreement with Apparel Group FCZO that awards the Dubai company exclusive rights to develop the Dave & Buster's brand within a six-country region encompassing UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Under the terms of the agreement, Apparel Group will build seven Dave & Buster's stores over a seven-year period.

"We have been actively searching for strong partners in targeted international markets and are delighted to be naming Apparel Group as our franchisee for the GCC region," said Dave & Buster's chief executive Steve King. "Their leadership, operating infrastructure and demonstrated ability to develop brands throughout the Middle East has positioned them as an ideal fit for Dave & Buster's."

The Apparel Group is a global fashion and lifestyle brand conglomerate. Since its founding in Dubai 15 years ago, it has amassed top fashion labels and restaurant brands from around the world, including Nine West, Cold Stone Creamery, Tommy Hilfiger, Kenneth Cole and Aldo and Tim Horton's.

"We believe the tremendous popularity of the Dave & Buster's experience that brings together both entertainment and dining elements will resonate with audiences throughout our region," said Apparel Group founder and chairman Nilesh Ved.

The Apparel Group boasts more than 1,000 stores, employing more than 10,500 multi-cultural staffers on four continents.