Saudi Arabia has proven to be the ideal market for Australian QSR brand Sushi Sushi and its global expansion to new markets.
Sushi Sushi, the Australian QSR chain, has continued its expansion in Saudi Arabia with the launch of its first drive-thru concept. The company has claimed that Quick-Service formats will have a profound impact in a market where two-thirds of consumers eat sushi at least once a month.
CEO Stephen Anders said that the brand has seen an opening between high-priced restaurants and sushi sold in supermarkets within the Saudi Arabian market.
He said drive-thrus are popular in Saudi Arabia, as well as delivery. In Australia, home delivery orders make up 10 percent of QSR sales, whereas in Saudi Arabia, food delivery services account for close to 35 percent of all QSR orders. The region’s hot climate has also made food delivery an attractive concept.
Sushi Sushi has also continued its talks with Kudu, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest restaurant chains. With more than 350 outlets, Kudu has a vast portfolio of facilities, including national warehousing, logistics and landlord connections. Sushi Sushi has aimed to open up to 40 new locations over the next 10 years.
Supply chain development is another key factor of Sushi Sushi’s rollout in Saudi Arabia. Anders said that representatives from the chain have made several visits to the Kingdom to design a premium network that can balance local sourcing with imported ingredients.
The expansion has followed a major shift towards popularity for Asian cuisine in the Saudi market. Sushi has also become an influential choice for many customers’ weekly dining habits.
In Australia, Sushi Sushi continues to operate 190 restaurants across the country. The brand expanded into the New Zealand market last November, citing significant growth within the next decade.
In 2024, the brand acquired Sushi Musa, adding a further nine outlets to its portfolio. It has continued to open a further 25 new outlets every year, with the 2026 pipeline already fully booked. Franchises make up approximately 70 percent of growth in the sector.
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