TGI Fridays™ Expands into the Balkans with Landmark Development Partnership

TGI Fridays™, the renowned global restaurant and bar brand, has recently taken a significant step in its growth strategy by signing a landmark development agreement with the Devolli Group. This partnership marks the brand's first expansion into the Balkan region, particularly into Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia. With plans to establish ten restaurants across these three countries, TGI Fridays™ aims to leverage this strategic move as a springboard into Southeast Europe and strengthen its global footprint.

The agreement comes alive under TGI Fridays™ “1-2-3 Strategic Vision,” which focuses on operating over 1,000 restaurants worldwide by 2030. This partnership not only reflects TGI Fridays™ commitment to a franchise-first development model but also showcases its adaptability and ambition in tapping into emerging markets. The Devolli Group, recognized as one of the leading diversified companies in the Balkans, will have exclusivity rights to franchise the TGI Fridays™ brand across the region, facilitating a platform for long-term growth.

This strategic collaboration lays the groundwork for sustainable growth throughout the Balkans, introducing TGI Fridays’ vibrant atmosphere, bold menu, and energy-infused dining experience to the locals. With a rich tradition of hospitality and a dynamic social culture, the Balkans present an ideal setting for TGI Fridays™ unique dining experience to flourish.

Over the last nine months, TGI Fridays™ has accelerated its international expansion, initiating development agreements in various locations, including Kenya and the Maldives, while enhancing partnerships to drive growth in markets like Peru, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, Greece, Cyprus, and Spain. Coupled with this, the brand has increased its global development pipeline by over 150 restaurants, reiterating the strength of its international franchise network.

Not only will this expansion cater to consumer demand, but it will also create new job opportunities within the local communities and invest in local talent in the hospitality sector. TGI Fridays™ anticipates contributing positively to the culinary, tourism, and hospitality sectors in the Balkans while instilling the unique “Fridays Spirit” in one of Europe’s most vibrant emerging markets.

Phil Broad, the Global President of TGI Fridays™, expressed confidence in the expansion, stating, "The Balkans present one of the most thrilling growth opportunities in Europe, combining entrepreneurial spirit, a flourishing hospitality sector, and a strong culture of gathering around the table. These traits align perfectly with what TGI Fridays™ stands for. The Devolli Group is the ideal partner to introduce TGI Fridays™ to the region. Their market expertise, operational excellence, and long-term vision instill great confidence in what we can build together. This partnership not only enhances our international presence but propels our strategic 1-2-3 Vision forward while we continue to bring the Fridays experience to new guests worldwide."

Blerim Devolli, President of the Devolli Group, also shared his enthusiasm, highlighting, “We are proud to bring TGI Fridays, one of the most recognized American casual dining brands, to Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia. This partnership represents our commitment to investing in world-class brands and delivering exceptional dining experiences across the region. We look forward to building a strong, long-term business that fosters local talent and provides our customers with a globally acclaimed dining experience.”

With this ambitious expansion into the Balkans, TGI Fridays™ further fortifies its European presence, enhancing its existing locations in Greece, Cyprus, Spain, Norway, and the UK. By continuing to pursue its franchise-first growth strategy, TGI Fridays™ aims to expand into high-potential markets with experienced local partners while ensuring the delivery of a consistent, quality, and locally relevant Fridays experience.

This partnership with the Devolli Group signifies more than just entering a new market. It marks the inception of a long-term commitment to community investment, opportunity creation, and presenting the distinctive “Fridays” spirit to a new generation of guests throughout Southeast Europe. Wherever TGI Fridays™ lands, the goal is to make every day feel a bit more like Friday.

For more information, visit TGI Fridays Franchise.