A&W Malaysia, the nation’s oldest food chain, is set to receive a major boost under new owner Inter Mark Resources.
A pledge by Inter Mark owner George Ang to strengthen the brand has seen plans put in place to expand the number of A&W Malaysia locations to 100 by 2021 from its current 47. Seven of the existing locations have been added since Inter Mark acquired the A&W franchise six months ago.
“We are looking at clinching sales of RM100 million (US$24.5 million) this year,” said Ang, “with earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of about 10 per cent of sales. That is why we plan to open 15 to 16 outlets alone this year.”
Reported sales for the firm’s last financial year hit RM70 million ($17.16 million).
Plans to reinvigorate the brand include the introduction of more affordable set meals, the replacement of frozen chicken with fresh chicken, and an enhanced breakfast service. The firm also partnered with GrabFood this year to provide delivery services.
Next year’s plans include the construction of more 24-hour standalone drive-through restaurants, expected to increase average store sales by RM2–3 million ($490–736 thousand). Eight out of 20 projected new restaurants in the works for next year are expected to be drive-through venues.
