$UPZS great news out today!
Unique Pizza and Subs Corp. (PINKSHEETS: UPZS) today announced Pizza Fusion, the only international choice for superior quality gourmet organic pizza, has opened its Eighth restaurant in the Middle East via the Samir Group, its Middle East Master Franchisor. On August 29, 2012, the Company announced it had signed a Definitive Agreement to acquire privately held Pizza Fusion Holdings, with closing expected in early 2013.
Located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the opening of Pizza Fusion Al-Arbeen represents a growing necessity for the restaurant's unique approach to making organic pizzas. Pizza Fusion has become the only choice for superior quality gourmet organic pizza in the Middle East, and continues to showcase its demand among its discerning International consumers.
As Samir Group continues to expand Pizza Fusion throughout the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), it has set its sights on the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dubai and Abu Dhabi are in focus as Pizza Fusion and Samir Group look to further build upon the consumer demand they've experienced in MENA.
Commenting on its expansion in the Middle East, James Vowler, UPZS President & CEO, said, "The Samir Group is the perfect partner for our growth in the Middle East. By opening their eighth successful Fusion location in less than two years, it proves to our loyal shareholders and future franchisees that our international expansion is on track."
Pizza Fusion and Samir Group first met at the Washington, D.C. International Franchise Expo in 2009. Shortly thereafter, Samir Group purchased the exclusive Master Franchisor rights to Saudi Arabia. Upon discovering strong success with Pizza Fusion, Samir Group invested further to acquire extended rights for parts of MENA including the UAE.
With plans to open 40 locations throughout the MENA region over the next five years, Samir Group is eyeing Dubai and Abu Dhabi to expand Pizza Fusion in the UAE. "The UAE is an opportunistic expansion target for Pizza Fusion due to the burgeoning region's continued embracement of U.S. restaurant chains," Vaughan Lazar, CEO and co-founder of Pizza Fusion, said. "With the demonstrated consumer loyalty of Saudi Arabian consumers, we are confident and excited to introduce Pizza Fusion to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as the leading business hubs of the Middle East."
About Pizza Fusion
Founded in the best interest of the individual and the environment, Pizza Fusion is the #1 green franchise in North America. Based out of Boca Raton, FL, the all-natural pizza restaurant chain offers fresh, natural, and healthier foods at its eco-friendly locations worldwide. Pizza Fusion's mission is to uphold the highest level of integrity in all they do, from the quality and origin of their food to their care for the health of their customers and the environment. The nationally expanding restaurant chain was recognized by Nation's Restaurant News in 2010 with its "Hot Concept" award. Pizza Fusion, "Saving the Earth, One Pizza at a Time." ( www.pizzafusion.com ).
About Unique Pizza and Subs
Unique Pizza and Subs Corporation engages in franchising, conversions, and ownership and operation of pizza and sub shops. Its highly cost effective franchise business model enables the prolific roll up and rebranding of existing "mom and pop" pizza restaurants under the Unique Pizza and Subs brand. In August 2012, the Company announced signing a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Pizza Fusion Holdings, the #1 green franchise in North America.
