Charlie’s Hot Dog targets Europe, US

Local franchises starting at $10,000

The local hot dog chain, Charlie’s Hot Dog, is seeking local and international expansion.

The eatery, established in 2001, proposes a kiosk-based hot dog concept. It has three local outlets: Two on Bliss Street and one in Gemmayzeh.

Ihab Ghandour, founder of Fun Foods, the company that owns the concept, said that expanding through franchises is a good business model to follow. “We are currently looking to open eight more local outlets and several ones abroad.”

Local franchises will be available starting at $10,000. “We are ready to assist any young entrepreneur willing to invest a little money in this successful concept,” said Ghandour. Foreign franchises will cost more.

The eatery was previously franchised in Spain but had to shut down due to the franchisee’s unsatisfying performance and operation. “We are targeting Europe and the US, and we are not afraid of competition,” he said.

The meat in the chain’s hot dogs is 100 percent halal, allowing Charlie’s Hot Dog to penetrate regional markets more smoothly than competitors.