Dine Brands International announced on October 28 an agreement with Saeed Minhas, of Minhas Holdings, to bring the IHOP brand to exclusive locations in the Greater Toronto Area. The agreement calls for 15 new IHOP locations over seven years. The first location is expected to open mid-year 2020.

The new locations are expected to create approximately 900 jobs and contribute up to $15 million to the construction industry in the Greater Toronto Area.

“IHOP is a strong brand with a huge fan base around the world, and we are excited to expand its presence in Canada,” says Saeed Minhas, CEO of Minhas Holdings. “We can’t wait for guests in the Greater Toronto Area to experience the brand’s warm hospitality and commitment to quality in its breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu offerings.”

“Canada was the first international market we opened for IHOP back in 1969, making this year our 50th anniversary in the country,” says Steve Joyce, chief executive officer, Dine Brands Global. “Canada continues to be a key market in our international development and growth strategy.”

“The opportunity to partner with Saeed Minhas as a franchisee was also a major factor in our decision,” Joyce says. “In addition to his work as a real-estate developer, Saeed has valuable experience in the hospitality industry as a franchisee for Marriott and IHG as well as local market knowledge and presence.”

“Canada is a great strategic business choice for expansion outside of the U.S. for many reasons including geographic proximity and great brand awareness,” says William Urrego, vice president of International Operations, Dine Brands Global. “We are interested in further expanding our presence in Canada and we are looking for great partners to take that step with us.”

Earlier this year, Dine Brands also announced a five-restaurant agreement in the Atlantic provinces with the first IHOP location expected to open in Moncton in December of this year.