Al Baik plans food-processing hub in Malaysia: report

Saudi fast food chain Al Baik Food Systems Co is planning to invest SAR 96 million in a food processing plant in Malaysia, CEO Rami Abu Ghazalah said during a press conference in Malaysia on Thursday, according to Bernama.com.

Rami added this is the first expansion outside Saudi in 40 years. The plant is expected to become a distribution hub for Al Baik’s ASEAN market expansion. The products from the plant will be exported to Saudi and other countries.

Al Baik appointed DWA Advisory, boutique financial advisory firm, will be responsible for exploring investment opportunities, obtaining regulatory approval, manpower recruitment, and setting up the processing plan.

 “Our options to set up a plant in the region are open, but our priority is Malaysia due to the favorable investment and franchise laws, availability of skilled workforce, strategic geographical location and infrastructure readiness including modern airports, seaports and highways,” Rami said.

Al Baik currently operates 64 restaurants in Saudi and has the capacity to serve up to 250,000 people per day.