US franchise chain Garrett has entered Thailand through a joint venture with real estate mogul Suchad Chiaranussati.

Garrett, known for its handmade popcorn, has opened its flagship outlet in Thailand at Siam Paragon shopping mall. The outlet spans 45 sqm and is expected to break even in less than two years.

“We’ve looked at Thailand for quite some time and spent a lot of money understanding the country and customers,” said Lance Chody, chairman and CEO of Garrett Popcorn Shops.

The outlet is expected to serve around 6000 customers a week.

Garrett plans to open 20 new outlets in markets including the US, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. This year, the franchise chain will also enter Indonesia, its fourth market in Southeast Asia after Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.

Chicago-based Garrett currently has 40 stores worldwide.