Sugarloaf TGIF Management expands TGI Fridays franchise in India, Mexico with new master agreements

INDIA/MEXICO – Sugarloaf TGIF Management, the global operator of the TGI Fridays brand, has signed two master franchise agreements to significantly expand the chain in India and Mexico.

Under the agreement with USR Hospitality, the brand plans to develop 51 TGI Fridays locations across India.

USR Hospitality holds exclusive rights to open franchised outlets in airports nationwide alongside high-street and mall venues. Former TGI Fridays president and COO John Neitzel has joined USR to support the rollout in India.

USR Chairman Prasoon Mukherjee emphasized combining John’s leadership with USR’s hospitality and real estate expertise to accelerate unprecedented brand growth.

A separate agreement with Mid-City Operadora (MCO) outlines a 50-location master franchise development in Mexico.

MCO’s CEO Alvaro Traconis highlights a regional strategy to bring Fridays’ energetic dining experiences across Mexico, including opening flagship outlets in all 32 state capitals and major cities.

MCO also plans restaurant training centers and partnerships with new suppliers to maintain the brand’s distinctive flavours and vibrant environment.

Additionally, Sugarloaf announced ownership changes in the Philippines, where Bistro Americano Group’s operations have transitioned to Tennyson Chen of Bounty Fresh.

The existing development agreement remains intact for expanding over 40 sites locally.

These strategic partnerships underscore TGI Fridays’ global expansion drive by leveraging local market expertise and experienced leadership.

The collaborations aim to position the brand strongly within India’s growing hospitality scene and Mexico’s celebration-focused dining market, while retaining the fun, quality, and community that define the TGI Fridays experience.

TGI Fridays has adopted a global expansion strategy centered on franchise partnerships in high-growth emerging markets such as Peru, and Japan.

The brand emphasizes flexible store formats including flagship restaurants, airport locations, and compact urban outlets tailored to various market needs.

By leveraging local franchise expertise and worldwide brand recognition, TGI Fridays aims to open 50-plus new locations under recent master franchise agreements, accelerating its presence and diversifying revenue streams.

The strategy includes developing unique dining experiences aligned with cultural preferences and optimizing operational efficiency through smaller footprint venues without compromising the vibrant, social atmosphere that defines the brand.

This calculated approach balances risk and opportunity in mature and emerging markets, positioning TGI Fridays for long-term growth and a stronger global footprint.

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