NAIROBI, Kenya, June 2 — PrideInn Hotels, Resorts and Camps has signed a 10-year agreement with TGI Fridays to introduce the American casual dining brand in Kenya, marking its official entry into Sub-Saharan Africa.
The first outlet will open at PrideInn Azure Hotel in Nairobi, with plans to roll out an additional nine to ten restaurants across the country, including a future location in Mombasa.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, PrideInn Group Managing Director Hasnain Noorani said the partnership aims to merge TGI Fridays’ global dining experience with Kenya’s hospitality culture.
“Our vision is to create an experience where the energy and excitement of TGI Fridays meets the friendliness, warmth, and welcoming spirit of Kenyan hospitality,” Noorani said.
He added that the expansion is expected to create jobs and strengthen the local food and beverage value chain by increasing demand for local suppliers and services.
Noorani noted that PrideInn has grown significantly since its founding in 2012, expanding from a single 28-room hotel to eight properties with more than 950 rooms. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sourcing labour and materials locally to support community development.
TGI Fridays Global President Phil Broad expressed confidence in Kenya’s hospitality and tourism sector, saying the country offers strong potential for international hospitality brands.
“When you sign a contract to open a TGI Fridays and work with a local operator… you’re signing what I view as almost like a marriage certificate,” Broad said. “We’re going to be in this for a long-term relationship to build the brand together across this wonderful country.”
He emphasized that the partnership would be long-term and focused on sustainable brand growth in the region.
Broad said the restaurant will retain its signature offerings such as steaks, ribs, burgers, and potato skins, while incorporating localized menu options to suit Kenyan tastes.
The agreement allows PrideInn a 20% variation from the global menu and a further 10% flexibility to develop local dishes tailored to the Kenyan market.
As part of the partnership, PrideInn will establish a “Center of Excellence” training kitchen to support hospitality skills development.
The facility will offer industrial placements for 250 to 300 hospitality students annually, training them in international culinary and service standards.
Recruitment and training for the first outlet are already underway, with the TGI Fridays restaurant at PrideInn Azure Hotel expected to open in early November.
