#USA #Dallas #International Expansion #TGI Fridays #Devolli Group

TGI Fridays™ Expands into the Balkans with Devolli Group Partnership

TGI Fridays™ has announced a significant step in its international growth strategy by signing a groundbreaking development agreement with the Devolli Group, a prominent business conglomerate in the Balkans. This partnership marks TGI Fridays™'s first venture into the Balkan region, specifically targeting Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia.

The agreement is set to establish ten new TGI Fridays™ restaurants across these three countries, laying the foundation for broader expansion in Southeast Europe. With Devolli Group obtaining exclusive sub-franchise rights to the brand, this collaboration represents not just a growth opportunity but also a strategic entry point into an emerging market celebrated for its rich hospitality traditions.

This milestone aligns with TGI Fridays™' Vision 1-2-3 strategy, which aims to operate over 1,000 restaurants worldwide by 2030. In just the past nine months, TGI Fridays™ has accelerated its global footprint, finalizing franchise agreements in countries such as Kenya and the Maldives, and enhancing its partnerships in markets such as Peru, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, Greece, Cyprus, and Spain. Collectively, these initiatives have resulted in the addition of more than 150 new restaurants to the brand’s international development program, underscoring the enduring demand for one of the world's leading casual dining brands.

For over six decades, TGI Fridays™ has been uniting people around good food, handcrafted drinks, and unforgettable celebration moments. The Balkans, with their vibrant social culture and community spirit, offer an ideal landscape for the introduction of TGI Fridays™' unique bar-oriented atmosphere, bold menu offerings, and dynamic dining experiences.

The Balkan region is among the fastest-growing areas in Europe for tourism and hospitality, making this an exciting opportunity for TGI Fridays™ to connect with a new generation of consumers. Alongside expanding the dining options available to locals, this partnership is projected to create new job opportunities, foster local talent development in the hospitality sector, and contribute to the continued growth of the restaurant and tourism industries in the region.

Phil Broad, Global President of TGI Fridays™, expressed enthusiasm for the venture, stating, "The Balkans represent one of Europe’s most promising growth prospects, characterized by entrepreneurship, a burgeoning hospitality sector, and a culture that celebrates shared meals. These qualities resonate perfectly with what TGI Fridays™ has embodied since its inception. Devolli Group is the ideal partner to launch TGI Fridays™ in the Balkans, and we are confident in the future we can build together."

Blerim Devolli, President of Devolli Group, added, "We are proud to introduce TGI Fridays™—one of the world’s most recognized casual dining brands—to Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia. This partnership showcases our commitment to investing in world-class brands and delivering exceptional hospitality experiences across the region. We are excited to build a strong, sustainable business that creates new opportunities and provides our customers and communities with globally recognized dining experiences."

The expansion into the Balkans enhances TGI Fridays™' existing European presence, which includes established locations in Greece, Cyprus, Spain, Norway, and the UK. This development agreement signifies the sustained momentum behind TGI Fridays™' growth strategy, focusing on franchising as a mode of expansion in high-potential markets through experienced local partners.

As TGI Fridays™ makes its debut in the Balkans, the partnership with Devolli Group sets the stage for a long-term commitment to investing in local communities and creating opportunities while introducing the unique Fridays experience to a new audience in Southeast Europe. Wherever TGI Fridays™ establishes its presence, every day increasingly feels like a Friday.

For more information, visit www.tgifridays.com/franchise/.

About TGI Fridays™

Founded in 1965 as the world’s first casual bar-grill, TGI Fridays™ has become a beloved gathering place for people to celebrate together. With nearly 400 restaurants across close to 40 countries, TGI Fridays™ offers a range of American classics, legendary cocktails, and the unique Fridays™ experience, powered by exceptional teams. Whether through full-service dining or a bold proximity format, TGI Fridays™' franchise-driven approach and operational excellence are designed for scalability. Franchisees benefit from international operational support centers located in Dallas, Dubai, and London, as well as regional resources in select markets.

About Devolli Group

Devolli Group is one of the largest private companies in Southeast Europe, with a diversified portfolio spanning manufacturing, food production, hospitality, retail, real estate, and strategic investments. Based in Kosovo, the group operates in multiple international markets and employs thousands throughout the region. Focusing on innovation, quality, and sustainable long-term growth, Devolli Group has established a strong portfolio of leading regional brands, successfully partnering with renowned global companies.