Fries remarkable testament to Omani entrepreneurship, Seven Fries, the nation’s first homegrown brand specializing in fresh French fries, has rapidly expanded beyond its borders, capturing the attention of international markets. Founded in 2021 by Issa bin Saleh Al Aghbari in Seeb, Muscat Governorate, Seven Fries exemplifies the innovative spirit of Omani youth transforming their passions into thriving businesses.
From Local Beginnings to National Recognition
Within two years of its inception, Seven Fries established three branches across Muscat and Dhofar Governorates, quickly gaining popularity among local consumers. The brand’s commitment to quality and unique offerings distinguished it in a competitive market. In 2024, Seven Fries was selected from over 300 Omani brands to participate in the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s franchise program, leading to a formal agreement aimed at further brand development.
Venturing into International Markets
The brand’s success story took a significant turn as it ventured into international markets. Seven Fries secured franchise agreements in Erbil (Kurdistan Region), Baghdad (Iraq), and Islamabad (Pakistan). Notably, an exclusive contract was signed in India, with ambitious plans to open 300 branches, recognizing the country’s vast market potential. This strategic expansion underscores the brand’s vision to position Omani culinary offerings on the global fast-food map.
The Visionary Behind Seven Fries
Issa bin Saleh Al Aghbari, the entrepreneur behind Seven Fries, exemplifies the drive and ambition of Omani youth. His journey from launching a local eatery to creating a brand with international reach serves as an inspiration. Al Aghbari has shared that his dream was to showcase Omani talent on a global stage, proving that local businesses can compete internationally. His dedication and commitment have not only brought success to his brand but have also set a benchmark for aspiring Omani entrepreneurs.
Challenges and Triumphs
Building a brand from the ground up comes with its own set of challenges. Al Aghbari faced hurdles in navigating the intricacies of franchising, marketing, and maintaining consistent quality across locations. However, his perseverance and willingness to adapt have been pivotal to Seven Fries’ growth. The brand’s expansion into countries with distinct culinary cultures presented the challenge of balancing local preferences with the brand’s signature offerings. Yet, the adaptability of Seven Fries has ensured its acceptance and success across diverse regions.
The Unique Appeal of Seven Fries
What sets Seven Fries apart from conventional fast-food chains is its emphasis on freshness, quality, and variety. Unlike mass-produced frozen fries, Seven Fries focuses on freshly cut potatoes and unique flavors that appeal to both local and international palates. Their menu includes a diverse range of fries seasoned with Middle Eastern spices, cheese sauces, and dips that cater to various taste preferences. This blend of traditional and modern flavors has resonated with customers, helping the brand establish a distinct identity.
Inspiring Omani Youth and Future Prospects
The success of Seven Fries has had a broader impact beyond business achievements. It has become a symbol of the potential that lies within Omani youth to innovate, create, and expand globally. By carving out a place in the competitive fast-food industry, the brand has demonstrated that local ideas, when nurtured and executed with dedication, can reach international standards. Al Aghbari hopes that the journey of Seven Fries will inspire more young Omanis to pursue entrepreneurship, take calculated risks, and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Looking ahead, Seven Fries plans to expand further across the GCC region, Africa, and Europe. The brand’s vision is to represent Omani flavors worldwide while maintaining its roots in quality and authenticity. With strategic partnerships, continued innovation, and a focus on customer experience, Seven Fries aims to become a global ambassador of Omani culinary expertise.
A Symbol of Omani Pride
As the brand continues to grow, it symbolizes a new wave of Omani businesses that aim to make their mark on a global scale. The journey of Seven Fries from a small outlet in Seeb to an international franchise is a testament to the power of ambition, resilience, and the ability to dream big. With each new franchise opening, the world gets a taste of Omani creativity, culture, and entrepreneurial spirit
