Dine Brands International to further expand IHOP brand across Canada

Dine Brands International has signed an agreement with Minhas Holdings’ Saeed Minhas to launch the IHOP brand to exclusive locations in the Greater Toronto Area. With this agreement, the company will develop 15 new IHOP locations over seven years.

The first location is likely to launch mid-year 2020. The new locations will create approximately 900 jobs and contribute up to $15 million to the construction industry in the Greater Toronto Area.

Saeed Minhas, CEO of Minhas Holdings, said, “IHOP is a strong brand with a huge fan base around the world, and we are excited to expand its presence in Canada. We can’t wait for guests in the Greater Toronto Area to experience the brand’s warm hospitality and commitment to quality in its breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu offerings.”

Steve Joyce, Chief Executive Officer, Dine Brands Global, stated, “Canada was the first international market we opened for IHOP back in 1969, making this year our 50th anniversary in the country. Canada continues to be a key market in our international development and growth strategy.”

“The opportunity to partner with Saeed Minhas as a franchisee was also a major factor in our decision. In addition to his work as a real-estate developer, Saeed has valuable experience in the hospitality industry as a franchisee for Marriott and IHG as well as local market knowledge and presence,” Joyce added.

William Urrego, Vice President of International Operations, Dine Brands Global, said, “Canada is a great strategic business choice for expansion outside of the U.S. for many reasons including geographic proximity and great brand awareness. We are interested in further expanding our presence in Canada and we are looking for great partners to take that step with us.”