The FoodCo Group is growing its overseas presence with both Muffin Break and Jamaica Blue heading for new shores. Muffin Break will rollout in India with a goal of 40 stores by 2017; it will also expand further across the UK. Jamaica Blue cafes will get a foothold in Singapore and continue growth in China and the United Arab Emirates.

FoodCo Group managing director Serge Infanti said “We have been successfully operating in the international market since 1994 and we have always had a well considered, conservative and focused approach to our international expansion.

I am convinced this measured and careful approach has ensured that both our Muffin Break and Jamaica Blue brands enjoy an excellent reputation based on credibility and proven success. I am proud weÍve built a strong foundation for further international expansion and growth in markets we deem appropriate. This is undoubtedly an exciting period for Foodco and for our worldwide partners,” added Infanti.

Global expansion

Muffin Break in India

In India, Foodco has signed a regional licence agreement with New Delhi-based, South Asian Food and Hospitality Pvt Ltd (SAFH), giving SAFH master rights to operate the Foodco-owned Muffin Break concept in India.

The launch of the brand in South Delhi in July-August 2012 will bring the total number of Muffin Break outlets globally to more than 260.

“We also believe Jamaica Blue would be well received by Indian customers and we continue to evaluate that opportunity,” said Infanti.

Muffin Break in UK

The chain opened its 45th UK store in February 2012 and an additional 15 stores will open before the end of this year. It is expected a further 40 stores will be trading by the end of 2014, bringing the Muffin Break UK network to a total of 100 outlets.

In Australia there are 178 stores and 36 stores in New Zealand.

Jamaica Blue in Singapore

Foodco has signed a regional license agreement with Universal F&B Pte Ltd to open Jamaica Blue caf_s in Singapore, with the first caf_ set for a July 2012 opening.

Serge Infanti said “We will be introducing Singapore to our authentic single origin Wallenford Estate Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee — the worldÍs most exclusive coffee. Further, we will be offering our Jamaica Blue Signature blend — which was recently recognised as the Number One milk coffee blend in Australia.”

Jamaica Blue in China

FoodcoÍs Chinese partners, Ware and Kare, opened the first Jamaica Blue caf_ in Shanghai in 2005. Since then, the network has grown to 15 cafes.

Infanti said “Jamaica BlueÍs coffee and food offering has been very well accepted by the Chinese, and we are expecting to see the Jamaica Blue China network grow by 25 sites per annum.

Furthermore, weÍre pleased to report that the additional caf_s will result in additional opportunities for employment in China and in Australia.”

Jamaica Blue in UAE

The third Jamaica Blue outlet opened in UAE in February 2012, in Abu Dhabi.

Foodco and its local region partner recently agreed on plans to accelerate the brands growth and have 25 outlets open by 2017.

Jamaica Blue caf_s has 71 outlets in Australia, five in New Zealand, 15 in China and three in the United Arab Emirates.