American company Famous Brands is rapidly expanding its footprint in Asia Pacific.

The parent company of TCBY Yogurt and Mrs Fields Cookies recently opened six stores in China, Australia and Pakistan and an additional 25 are set to open in these countries over the next two years.

Together with franchise partners Laura Tzu and Bizhen Qi of Shanghai Zhentian Trading Company, it opened a flagship TCBY Yogurt store in Shanghai in April. Tzu and Qi will spearhead the opening of 20 additional stores during the next two years.

Having opened his 32nd Mrs Fields Cookies in Australia in Perth, long-time master franchisee Andrew Benefield will open three new Mrs Fields outlets by the end of 2014.

Meanwhile, Pakistani partner Alfeef Foods has opened three TCBY and Mrs Fields dual-branded store in Karachi with two additional co-branded locations to open by the end of this year in the city.

Famous Brands has also signed agreements to develop additional franchise locations in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Vietnam, with the first four locations in Malaysia expected to open in June.

“Worldwide demand for our high-quality desserts is stronger than ever and we are seeking qualified franchise partners to be a part of TCBY Yogurt and Mrs Fields Cookies’ international expansion.”said David Bloom, COO for Famous Brands.

Key international growth markets for Famous Brands include India, Japan, South America and Mexico and the company is continually looking to partner with master franchise partners in these areas. 

With international sales up 10 per cent system-wide, Famous Brands expects to open nearly 40 stores globally in 2014, including several new market launches.

Mrs Fields created the retail cookie business in 1977 and TCBY pioneered the fro-yo concept in 1981. Together, TCBY and Mrs Fields now have more than 900 locations in 33 countries.