GLENDALE, Calif. — Dine Brands International has entered and an agreement with Saeed Minhas, CEO of Minhas Holdings, to open 15 new IHOP locations in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) over seven years, with the first expected to open mid-year 2020.
“Canada was the first international market we opened for IHOP back in 1969, making this year our 50th anniversary in the country,” says Steve Joyce, CEO, Dine Brands Global. “Canada continues to be a key market in our international development and growth strategy.”
“The opportunity to partner with Saeed Minhas as a franchisee was also a major factor in our decision,” Joyce adds. “In addition to his work as a real-estate developer, Saeed has valuable experience in the hospitality industry as a franchisee for Marriott and IHG, as well as local market knowledge and presence.”
Earlier this year, Dine Brands also announced a five-restaurant agreement in the Atlantic provinces, with the first IHOP location expected to open in Moncton, N.B. in December.
“Canada is a great strategic business choice for expansion outside of the U.S. for many reasons, including geographic proximity and great brand awareness,” says William Urrego, vice-president of International Operations, Dine Brands Global. “We are interested in further expanding our presence in Canada and we are looking for great partners to take that step with us.”
