Johnny Rockets Continues Global Expansion with Seven New Openings
Rhea-AI Summary
FAT Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: FAT), parent company of Johnny Rockets, has announced the opening of seven new international locations across Iraq, Chile, United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and Brazil. The expansion includes two locations in Baghdad, Iraq, and single locations in Antofagasta, Cancun, Dubai, Mexico City, and Sao Paolo.
The company now operates over 100 locations across these markets, demonstrating strong validation of their international franchise system. Johnny Rockets, founded in 1986, has grown to encompass over 250 locations in more than 25 countries, offering their signature cooked-to-order burgers, hand-spun shakes, and classic American dining experience.
Positive
- Expansion into 7 new strategic international locations across 5 countries
- Strong presence with over 100 locations across target markets
- Demonstrated growth through committed franchise partnerships
- Global brand recognition with presence in more than 25 countries
Negative
- Heavy reliance on franchise partnerships for growth
- Exposure to international market risks and currency fluctuations
Insights
Johnny Rockets' seven new international locations demonstrate FAT Brands' execution of global growth strategy across emerging markets.
Johnny Rockets' expansion with seven new international locations represents a strategic deepening of FAT Brands' global footprint. The expansion into five countries (Iraq, Chile, UAE, Mexico, and Brazil) demonstrates the company's continued ability to execute its international growth strategy, particularly in emerging markets where American casual dining concepts can command premium positioning.
The announcement that FAT Brands now has over 100 locations across these markets indicates substantial scale in these regions. This milestone suggests the company has achieved sufficient density to potentially realize operational efficiencies and enhanced brand recognition in these territories.
What makes this expansion particularly notable is the geographical diversity. By establishing multiple locations in Middle Eastern markets (Iraq, UAE), Latin American countries (Chile, Brazil, Mexico), and adding second locations in established cities, FAT Brands is demonstrating a balanced approach to market development. This suggests the Johnny Rockets concept has transferable appeal across diverse cultural contexts.
For FAT Brands, which operates 18 restaurant concepts with over 2,300 units worldwide, this expansion reinforces their franchise-driven growth model. The mention of "committed franchise partners who continue to grow with us" indicates healthy franchise relationships, which are essential for sustained expansion in the restaurant sector without significant direct capital investment from the parent company.
All-American Burger Concept Adds to International Footprint in Iraq, Chile, United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and Brazil
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc., parent company of Johnny Rockets and 17 other restaurant concepts, announces the continued worldwide growth of Johnny Rockets, opening seven new locations this year in Iraq, Chile, United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and Brazil.
Known for its upbeat atmosphere, gourmet, cooked-to-order burgers, and hand-spun shakes, the classic brand continues to resonate with fans overseas, fueling growing demand for international expansion. New openings this year include two locations in Baghdad, Iraq (Al Jadriya Mall and Dhubbat Street M312 - S27), Antofagasta, Chile (Mall Plaza Antofagasta), Cancun, Mexico (Grand Outlet Riviera Maya), Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Jumeirah), Mexico City, Mexico (Averanda), and, most recently, Sao Paolo, Brazil (Belem do Para).
“Our expansion remains strong in Brazil, Chile, United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and Iraq,” said Jake Berchtold, COO of FAT Brands’ Fast Casual Division. “With more than 100 locations now across these markets, we see clear validation of our international franchise system with our committed franchise partners who continue to grow with us.”
The first Johnny Rockets restaurant opened June 6, 1986, on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles. Since that time, the chain’s timeless all-American brand has connected with customers across the U.S. and in more than 25 other countries around the globe. The Johnny Rockets team’s passion for delivering fresh, classic American fare is only equaled by their commitment to providing a superb guest experience.
For more information on Johnny Rockets, visit www.johnnyrockets.com.
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About FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands
FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets and develops fast casual, quick-service, casual and polished casual dining restaurant concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 18 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Smokey Bones, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Native Grill & Wings, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,300 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit www.fatbrands.com.
About Johnny Rockets
Founded in 1986 on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, Johnny Rockets is a world-renowned international franchise that offers high-quality, innovative menu items including Certified Angus Beef® cooked-to-order hamburgers, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, crispy fries, and rich, delicious hand-spun shakes and malts. With over 250 locations in over 25 countries around the globe, this dynamic lifestyle brand offers friendly service and upbeat music contributing to the chain’s signature atmosphere of relaxed, casual fun.
For more information, visit www.johnnyrockets.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Erin Mandzik, FAT Brands
emandzik@fatbrands.com
860-212-6509
FAQ
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