Superstar chef Marco Pierre White is bringing his franchised restaurants to Australia.
Pierre White and his business partner Nick Taplin have signed a deal with UAE-based RMAL Hospitality to form Black and White International.
The new business will focus on building the celebrity chef’s restaurant brands across the Asia-Pacific region.
Jihad Hazzan, COO of Al Fahim Hospitality and Elias Madbak, MD of RMAL Hospitality, the restaurant arm of Al Fahim Hospitality, will be working on the project to appoint franchisees.
Seven brands sit within the portfolio:
- Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill
- New York Italian
- Bardolino Pizzeria Bellini & Espresso Bar
- Wheelers of St James Oyster Bar & Grill Room
- Marconi Coffee & Juice Bar
- Mr White’s English Chophouse
- Koffmann and Mr White’s English French Brasserie
Marco Pierre White said “I’ve visited Australia many times and this is a hugely exciting opportunity that will allow us to extend our philosophy of selling a good night out, not only in Australia but right across the globe. It will certainly mean a lot more air travel for me in the future!”
The celebrity chef will be familiar to many Australians through his appearances on TV programs such as Master Chef Australia, Master Chef Asia and Hell’s Kitchen Australia.
Nick Taplin is excited about the development into the Asia-Pacific region and said the new business alliance is the next step towards global expansion.
“RMAL Hospitality has a strong track record within the restaurant and hospitality sector and we’re delighted to launch this exciting new division of Black and White Hospitality. With two venues already in the pipeline and Marco having just opened The English House in Singapore, we’ll be looking to build our international presence with hoteliers, owners and other hospitality management businesses.”
RMAL Hospitality has franchise experience and handles a portfolio of brands that includes Wagamama and Trader Vic’s.
Jihad Hazzan, COO of Al Fahim Hospitality added: “After our successful expansion into the UAE, we’re now looking forward to developing partnerships for other regions including Australia.”
The Black and White Hospitality business launched in 2013 and has since rolled out 50 restaurants in the UK.