Casual-dining giant Max’s Group Incorporated (MGI) has broken into the Middle East and also broadened its presence in Canada.

Its casual-dining restaurant brand Sizzlin’ Steak has gained a foothold in the UAE through a partnership deal with Kasamar Holdings. The aim is to build seven Sizzlin’ Steak outlets in the UAE over the next five years.

“We are seeing the emergence of Sizzlin’ Steak as a global mainstream brand,” says MGI president/CEO Robert Trota.

It is the fourth development contract signed by MGI for the year, adding to a pipeline of more than 130 stores for the coming years.

Kasamar is a family enterprise based in Abu Dhabi with diversified interests in retail. It is planning to assemble a portfolio of food brands for the region.

Director Mo Bississo says the group hopes to launch the first Sizzlin’ Steak by early next year to be followed by an accelerated rollout long term.

MGI has 655 stores, including 55 franchised outlets, abroad including parts of Asia.

Meanwhile, it has advised the Philippine Stock Exchange that with its partner Alibin Group it will establish the first Max’s Restaurant in Winnipeg before next year.

MGI has four Max’s Restaurant branches in Canada, in Vancouver, Toronto, Scarborough and Edmonton. Alibin is a Winnipeg-based private firm with experience that embraces retail and food services.

MGI’s other brands include Dencio’s, Krispy Kreme, Le Coeur de France, Maple, Meranti, Pancake House, Teriyaki Boy and Yellow Cab Pizza.