Five Guys Opening in Prague Delayed: What’s Next?

The much-anticipated arrival of the American fast-food chain Five Guys in Prague has been marked by repeated delays.

Initially, the chain was expected to open its first restaurant in the reconstructed Máj Národní department store earlier this year. The launch was first planned for late spring or early summer, then postponed to November, according to Hospodářské noviny.

Currently, the Máj Národní management aims for an opening by New Year’s Eve. “We aim to open the Five Guys unit by the end of this year,” said Karolina Ötwösová, leasing director of Máj Národní.

However, the timeline remains uncertain. Sources close to the market indicate the opening might be pushed to the first half of next year.

Five Guys itself has not provided any updates. Despite multiple inquiries, the chain’s press department has refrained from commenting on the exact opening date.

A New Player in Prague’s Competitive Fast Food Scene

Known for its signature hamburgers and fries, Five Guys will directly compete with established fast food giants like McDonald’s and Burger King.

Its entry is part of a broader trend of American fast-food brands expanding into the Czech market, Popeyes, a U.S. chain specializing in fried chicken, is planning to open its third store in Andel on December 19, 2024.

The competition appears unfazed by the arrival of Five Guys. “We generally perceive the entry of new players into the Czech market quite positively,” said Filip Vostrý, marketing manager at Burger King.

“Each new player, like Popeyes or possibly Five Guys, raises brand awareness and grows the fast food market overall.”

Vostrý believes the Five Guys opening will attract more customers to the area, benefiting other fast food chains as well. “Some of these customers might ultimately come to us, as we’re on the same playing field,” he added.

More American Chains Eyeing the Czech Market

The wave of American fast food expansions doesn’t stop with Five Guys. Wendy’s, the third-largest hamburger chain in Europe, also announced plans to enter the Czech Republic. Michael Clarke, Wendy’s head of Europe, described the Czech market as a strategic step for their European expansion. “The Czech Republic is an ideal base thanks to its strong market, rich fast food tradition, and excellent geographical location,” Clarke said.

Via: Penize.cz

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