Arby’s is continuing to break new ground after announcing the signing of a multi-unit license agreement for significant expansion across several states in southeast Mexico.

Experienced quick-service franchisee Grupo Penagos Meneses will operate the new restaurants, with the first slated to open in the second half of 2022.

“We are excited to introduce Arby’s premium stacks to guests in southeast Mexico, a region that shares our passion for high-quality proteins,” said Pancho Gonzalez Rodriguez, Vice President of Americas for Inspire Brands. “Respected multi-unit restaurant operators with a deep knowledge of the local market, the Penagos family are ideal franchisees for the Arby’s brand as we look to drive growth throughout the region in the coming years.”

“In selecting the right opportunity to grow our business, Arby’s differentiated menu and unique dining experience stood apart as a perfect fit for the southeast Mexico market,” said Mauricio Penagos, chief executive officer of Grupo Penagos Meneses. “We are confident local guests will enjoy the brand’s wide variety of premium sandwiches and sides and look forward to serving them at our first Arby’s restaurant later this year.”

Arby’s currently operates more than 3,500 restaurants globally, including more than 150 locations across Canada, Mexico, Turkey, South Korea, Japan, and Egypt. In 2020, the brand teamed up with franchisee Gruncorp to open the first Arby’s restaurant in Guadalajara.