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Fast-casual chain Melt Shop opened its first international franchise location in Kuwait City, Kuwait at La Hamra Mall & Luxury Center.

Later this year, San Diego-based craft brewer Ballast Point will open a brewery, tasting room and restaurant in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif.

What is the current state of restaurant real estate, and what should restaurateurs consider when looking for locations this year?

Mexican quick-serve chain Taco John’s signed a development deal that will add at least 100 new locations and move the brand into three new states: North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

Wayback Burgers opened it newest store in Khartoum, Sudan. It is the chain’s first outpost in the Northern African country and the first American chain to break into the market. Franchise owner Mansour Omer Mansour Manna purchased the rights to develop seven restaurants in the Sudan.

A roundup of interesting bits of news that came across the editor’s desk in the last month, including FRCH Design Worldwide’s merger, Papa John’s Poland debut, Pizza Hut’s partnership with Toyota and more.

As a senior project manager for a general contractor that specializes in restaurant projects, I’ve helped clients open restaurants in several different states. While most of these openings have gone smoothly, I’ve noticed a trend recently that has resulted in some less-than-smooth openings.