American burger franchises Five Guys and Shake Shack have opened new stores in Hong Kong this week.
Launching on Johnston Road in Wan Chai this week, in premises formerly home to Tommy Bahama, Five Guys is known for its made-to-order beef burgers, creamy shakes and thick-cut Cajun fries.
The move is part of an aggressive global expansion plan for the US fast-food chain. Founded in 1986 in Virginia, Five Guys first expanded outside the US in 2003 and now has almost 1500 outlets worldwide, in the US, Canada, UK, Europe and the Middle East.
The company says it has another 1500 outlets under development as the brand has built “a cult-like following around the world”.
New York’s Shake Shack opened at the Pacific Place Admiralty yesterday to queues of more than 200 fans and local residents. The first 200 people in line were awarded Shake Shack tote bags in celebration of the launch. It’s the chain’s second store, the first located at IFC mall.
Shake Shack is a modern day “roadside” burger stand known for its Angus beef burgers, chicken sandwiches and flat-top Vienna beef dogs. The franchise also serves craft beer and wine. It was brought to Hong Kong by Maxim’s Group.
Shake Shack originally opened in 2004 in Madison Square Park, and has since expanded to more than 180 locations in the US and more than 70 international locations.
