Carl's Jr to arrive in Australia
NSW gets first dibs of the iconic, California-style burgers.
CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc. (“CKE”), parent company of Carl’s Jr., signed an agreement with Australia’s BKG Group to develop, open and operate 10 new Carl’s Jr. restaurants in central, mid and northern New South Wales coasts.
The deal is the first in Australia for the premium burger chain and kicks off an ambitious expansion plan to bring 300 Carl’s Jr. restaurants to the continent over the next 10-15 years.
“BKG Group’s demonstrated entrepreneurial stewardship provides strong leadership to launch Carl’s Jr. into Australia. And, Australia is a highly relevant market for our renowned menu of premium-quality selections anchored by our signature 100 percent Angus beef Thickburgers,” said Andy Puzder, CEO of CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc.
According to the company, CKE’s partnership with BKG Group follows the record-breaking 2011 launch of Carl’s Jr. in New Zealand. Fifteen Carl’s Jr. restaurants are successfully operating now in New Zealand with an average unit volume of USD$2.2 million. Another five sites are currently in development there.
“BKG Group’s demonstrated entrepreneurial stewardship provides strong leadership to launch Carl’s Jr. into Australia. And, Australia is a highly relevant market for our renowned menu of premium-quality selections anchored by our signature 100 percent Angus beef Thickburgers.”
"This is a hugely exciting opportunity for us. Carl's Jr. meets a gap in the market for a gourmet burger experience at fast food pricing," said Lindsay Brennan, General Manager of BKG Group. "With the backing of a successful international company that provides high-quality food, edgy marketing, and industry-leading service, we believe Carl's Jr. will appeal to the Australian culture."
“The Carl’s Jr. success in New Zealand demonstrates the potential for the brand in Australia,” said Ned Lyerly, EVP, International, CKE Restaurants. “In New Zealand, we’ve opened 15 restaurants in the past three years and have achieved sales above those seen in North America where the brand is well-loved among 18- to 30-year-old young, hungry guys. This first agreement with BKG Group is welcomed as we gain momentum for additional development agreements across the country.”
