Sugarloaf TGIF Management, LLC, the privately held operator of the global TGI Fridays® brand, has announced two major international expansion agreements that mark a significant milestone in the brand’s global growth journey.
Under new master franchise agreements, USR Hospitality (India) and Mid-City Operadora Sapi de CV (Mexico) will collectively develop more than 100 new TGI Fridays locations, strengthening the chain’s footprint across Asia and Latin America.
A Landmark 51-Unit Deal to Bring TGI Fridays to India
The new partnership with USR Hospitality grants exclusive rights to develop 51 TGI Fridays® restaurants across India, including prime high-street, mall, and airport locations.
Notably, former TGI Fridays President and COO John Neitzel has joined USR Hospitality to lead and support the brand’s expansion in the Indian market.
“We are honored to be the Master Franchisee in India and look forward to working with John to grow the TGI Fridays brand across the country,” said Prasoon Mukherjee, Chairman of USR.
This collaboration combines USR’s local market expertise and real estate strength with TGI Fridays’ globally recognized dining concept — promising to bring the brand’s signature energy and hospitality to millions of Indian consumers.
Expanding Across Mexico with 50 New Locations
In Mexico, Mid-City Operadora Sapi de CV (MCO-Mexico) has signed a 50-unit master franchise agreement, reinforcing TGI Fridays’ strong presence in Latin America.
Led by Alvaro Traconis, CEO and Founder of MCO Mexico, the partnership plans to open flagship locations in all 32 Mexican state capitals and major cities. The initiative also includes building restaurant training centers and forming new supply chain partnerships to support local operations.
“We’re excited to expand this great brand across Mexico with a regional strategy that will bring Fridays’ energy to every corner of the country,” said Traconis.
Global Growth Momentum and Brand Strength
According to Phil Broad, President of TGI Fridays® International Franchising:
“From India to Mexico, we’re seeing the same thing everywhere — people want to celebrate, and TGI Fridays delivers that experience better than anyone. These agreements demonstrate the brand’s staying power and our commitment to long-term growth.”
In addition to these major expansion plans, Sugarloaf also announced ownership transitions in key global markets:
- In the Philippines, The Bistro Americano Group — under new ownership led by Tennyson Chen of Bounty Fresh — will continue developing over 40 locations nationwide.
- In Spain, Yellowstone Capital, S.L. has taken over operations of nine existing TGI Fridays locations.
These transitions align with the brand’s ongoing strategy of partnering with experienced local operators who share its commitment to quality, growth, and celebration-driven dining experiences.
Conclusion: Franchise Expansion Insights by Star Brands Consulting Group
TGI Fridays’ aggressive global expansion across India and Mexico reinforces the enduring appeal of American casual dining franchises and highlights how strategic partnerships can drive long-term international success.
At Star Brands Consulting Group, we help investors and hospitality entrepreneurs identify and connect with top-tier global franchise opportunities like TGI Fridays®. Our consulting expertise supports clients through market entry strategy, brand partnership negotiations, and multi-unit development planning — ensuring sustainable success in high-growth markets.
Whether you’re exploring food and beverage franchises or seeking to invest in international lifestyle brands, Star Brands Consulting Group provides the insight, strategy, and partnerships needed to turn global expansion into a local success story.