China To Get Johnny Rockets Footprint

In its largest development deal to date, the 1950s-themed burger chain has signed a joint-venture agreement to open 100 restaurants in China over the next decade. The focus will be on opening Johnny Rockets in malls and retail centers in Shanghai and Beijing; the first unit is expected to open in 2016. Its Asian footprint already includes locations in Malaysia, Korea, Indonesia and the Philippines.

The Aliso Viejo, Calif., chain, owned by Sun Capital Partners since 2013, has 330 restaurants in 32 states and 27 countries. Its franchise partners currently operate more than 125 restaurants outside of the U.S.