Background on Burger King’s Current Operator in Argentina
Burger King is currently operated in Argentina by the Mexican group Alsea, which aims to divest from the brand in the three countries where it operates. However, Alsea will remain present in Argentina through the Starbucks coffee chain.
Desembarco’s Aspirations and Commitment to Responsible Transition
Argentine group Desembarco, owners of brands El Desembarco, Mr. Tasty, and Mila and Go, is in the final stages of negotiation to acquire Burger King’s local operations. The company has over 100 outlets in Argentina, making it the third-largest hamburger chain in the country, behind McDonald’s and local Mostaza.
Desembarco stated that they are conducting an operational, labor, and commercial analysis to ensure a well-managed and responsible transition. Their focus is on preserving jobs, maintaining local supplier networks, and ensuring the continuity of operations across all 100+ Burger King locations in Argentina.
By acquiring Burger King, Desembarco aims to enhance synergies with their existing operations, expand their management capabilities, and strengthen logistics and supply chain infrastructure.
Progress of Negotiations
Although negotiations are not yet finalized, Desembarco confirmed that the process is advanced and anticipates announcements in the coming weeks.
Desembarco’s Current Operations
Currently, Desembarco operates mid-tier hamburger chain El Desembarco and economy-tier Mr. Tasty, along with Mila and Go. Acquiring Burger King would complement their existing operations and further establish them within the quick-service restaurant sector.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Desembarco? Desembarco is an Argentine group that currently owns El Desembarco, Mr. Tasty, and Mila and Go restaurant chains.
- Why is Desembarco interested in acquiring Burger King? Acquiring Burger King would allow Desembarco to enhance synergies with their existing operations, expand management capabilities, and strengthen logistics and supply chain infrastructure.
- What is the current status of Burger King’s operations in Argentina? Burger King has over 100 outlets in Argentina, making it the third-largest hamburger chain in the country. The brand has been present in Argentina since 1989, with local franchises under Alsea’s management since 2006.
- What are Desembarco’s plans for Burger King operations? Desembarco aims to ensure a responsible transition by preserving jobs, maintaining local supplier networks, and ensuring the continuity of Burger King’s operations across all 100+ locations in Argentina.
