Ian Said, O’Briens Master Franchise Partner for South Africa, invites people to come and taste a little bit of Ireland as he opens his first O’Briens store in Pinelands Cape town, on Tuesday 15th March, 2005 .

South African entrepreneur Ian Said, plans to open 20 stores over the next five years, with a second and third store opening in the next 18 months.

Ian chose the Irish Franchise O’Briens as he believes both locals and visitors will embrace the healthy alternative lunchtime offer. He feels that the O’Briens healthy options made to order menu, including salads, Wrappo’s, and Low Fat Five Options sit very nicely with the health conscious residents and regular visitors to the region.

“As soon as I saw the new third generation O’Briens store concept, with its hot and cold made to order offer, contemporary surroundings, and Irish hospitality, I knew it would appeal to the people of Capetown. The rich espresso based Italian Coffee,and the delicious Irish sandwich recipes and setting is very appealing to South Africans, and visitors to the region”, added Ian.

Ian is looking to expand the South African business through acquiring additional franchise partners within South Africa and Namibia.

South Africa is one of O’Briens major international growth areas earmarked for 2005.
“ We are looking at regions which will readily embrace the O’Briens concept, and holiday destinations pose a real expansion opportunity. The market is already familiar with the made to order healthy concept”, states Rory Smyth, International General Manager, O’Briens Irish Sandwich Bars.