EXPANSION PLANS FOR MARGHERITA

Margherita, the Neapolitan restaurant, is getting a boost in the form of investment led by Lebanese stakeholder, Gaby Bou Najm. "Margherita is a brand that is very dear to our hearts; we strongly believe in its international potential,” Bou Najm said. “We are investing time, resources and energy to ensure and maintain Margherita's continuous success.”

While there are no major changes set to take place in the next year at least, the investors wish to expand and open new franchises of the Italian eatery. Giovanni Casa, former majority stakeholder will remain on the board of directors, helping and advising on the concept orientation, while Marc Naaman will assume the management, operations and franchise development of Margherita.

“As a franchisor, we are currently operating in four different territories, including Lebanon, Kuwait, UAE and KSA. In addition to that, we are opening in Qatar before the end of the year and in Riyadh - KSA in the second quarter of 2018,” Bou Najm explained. “Our Lebanese operation will be increased with the opening of two to three restaurants within the next few years.”

With this in mind, the investors hope to strengthen Margherita’s local operation and help its development regionally.