McDonald’s shows intent to open shop in Kenya

World renowned fast-food chain McDonald’s has shown intent to set up a franchise in Kenya’s capital Nairobi by inviting applications from investors.

According to a statement from McDonald’s, investors who have retail experience and “willingness to devote full-time to the real estate market (and) significant capital” are encouraged to send their applications.

“We will retail all information sent to us in a database and give you consideration if we take steps to develop McDonald’s restaurants in Kenya,” read the statement in part.

The restaurant chain’s chief executive announced earlier this year expansion plans into the African market, but did not give any timelines.

McDonald’s entry into Nairobi adds to the growing number of international franchise setting base in Kenya among them, Subway and Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) who are setting up expansion plans.

KFC entered the East African market three years ago with five restaurants while the sixth one in the pipeline.

The franchise contracts with global fast food chains are usually very capital-intensive with similar ventures like KFC’s latest store costing $1 million (Sh90 million) to set up.

American fast food chain Domino’s Pizza, ice cream seller Cold Stone Creamery and South Africa-based sea food restaurants Ocean Basket opened outlets attracted by a growing population of middle-income consumers.