Hebrew daily “Yediot Ahronot” reports that Burger King executives are visiting in Israel for the first time in three years, and the first time since Burger King Israel found itself in trouble and filed for a stay in proceedings. Burger King reportedly wants to preserve its Israeli operations. Burger King president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa and Burger King's legal counsel will arrive in Israel tonight.
During the one-day visit, the executives will reportedly meet potential buyers of the Israeli franchise, which is currently owned by businessman Meshulam Riklis. The visit is also intended to back Burger King Israel trustee Adv. Doron Tischmann, and to avoid liquidating the brand in Israel and selling the franchise’s branches to competitors.
Burger King will hire an Israeli spokesperson to improve its improve its image in Israel.
Kamor president and CEO Danny Brenner and Hilan Tech CEO Avi Baum also reportedly plan to submit bids for Burger King Israel. Tischmann has spoken with them and provided them with Burger King Israel’s figures.
Other parties interested in the franchise are Morag, owned by Amnon Barazani and Dani Warner; and Ian Fisher, the controlling shareholder of Omni Food Brands, which owns the Dominos Pizza Israel franchise.
Published by Globes [online] - www.globes.co.il - on February 25, 2003