California-based restaurant chain Johnny Rockets has signed a franchise agreement with property consultancy CBRE to open restaurants in Malaysia.

CBRE Malaysia plans to open the first Johnny Rockets restaurant in the next eight to 12 months. The agreement calls for up to 30 restaurants in 15 to 20 years.

Johnny Rockets’ international development president Steve Devine said Malaysia’s booming younger population, who are more amenable towards international cuisine, makes the country a big potential market for the up-market burger chain.

“Malaysia is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country and is well-suited to the Johnny Rockets experience. With 10 restaurants operating in the Philippines and South Korea, and one opening soon in Indonesia, we believe our success in Asia will continue to our growing brand awareness,” said Devine.

CBRE Malaysia has also agreed to represent and expand the brand in other parts of Asia excluding China.

“We recognise that the modern retail world is globalising rapidly and markets such as Malaysia are incredibly attractive to new international brands from Europe, Australia and America,” said John Sigler, VP of retail consultancy at CBRE Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Johnny Rockets, through its franchisee Camamiq Foods, continues to gain momentum in the Philippines with a sixth restaurant now open at Harbor Point mall in Subic.

Johnny Rockets restaurants feature visible grills, jukeboxes, dancing servers and full service with both dining room and counter seating. The menu include hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, sides and shakes.

GB