Mama Fu’s Asian House, an Austin based flex-casual restaurant concept offering a menu inspired by the cuisines of Vietnam, Korea, China, Japan, and Thailand, has gained popularity throughout regions of the United States. Now that popularity has drawn the attention of an international company looking to introduce the concept to the UAE, with the first location in the first quarter of 2015.

Mama Fu’s franchise development partner is GGICO Gourmet LLC, a subsidiary of GGICO (Gulf General Investment Company), the renowned Dubai Financial Market listed public shareholding company established in 1973.

GGICO is a widely diversified conglomerate, having activities in oil, manufacturing, insurance, services, hospitality, retail, and real estate development. The Group has recently expanded on retail restaurant operations through its fully owned subsidiary GGICO Gourmet LLC.

“We are excited to bring Mama Fu’s Asian House to the UAE,” says Hassan Oweida, chief operating officer of GGICO Gourmet, LLC. “Combining our extensive development and food service background with Mama Fu’s experience, unique brand, and flavorful menu will ensure that GGICO Gourmet delivers the best quality Asian food in the Gulf region.”

With 18 locations in 5 states throughout the United States of America, Mama Fu’s agreement with GGICO Gourmet marks the company’s first international development deal.

“Taking a brand international is big for any company, but we have experience doing it before with other concepts,” says Randy Murphy, president and CEO of Mama Fu’s. 

Having recently opened a smaller store model focusing more on takeout, delivery, and catering, Mama Fu's will have both restaurant styles open in the UAE, offering greater variety and flexibility for franchise partners as well as consumers.