American burger chain Five Guys is set to make its Beijing debut next month, adding to a growing number of US restaurant brands expanding their footprint in China despite intensifying competition.

The South China Morning Post reported that the burger chain plans to open three restaurants in Beijing at shopping malls popular with younger consumers. 

Five Guys entered Mainland China in 2021 through a partnership with local franchise operator JumboFive, opening its first restaurant at Shanghai’s Printemps Mall on Huaihai Middle Road. 

The launch generated significant consumer interest, with the company saying customers began queuing as early as 2am and faced waits of more than three hours on the opening day.

Five Guys’ expansion reflects a broader trend among American fast-food operators seeking growth in China as opportunities in their home market become more limited. 

Earlier this month, Domino’s Pizza China expanded its network to 1550 stores, adding 235 net new outlets during the first half of the year, while reporting stronger sales momentum in the second quarter.

Meanwhile, Yum China recently agreed to acquire the Pizza Hut business in mainland China from US-based Yum Brands for US$1.2 billion in cash. The company said Pizza Hut is China’s largest casual dining restaurant brand, generating $2.3 billion in revenue and $183 million in operating profit last year.