Platinum Brands, S.A., under the umbrella of Norbrook Equity Partners Limited, is embarking on a major growth phase in Panama, with plans to launch 12 new KFC outlets, representing an investment exceeding US$15 million.
Since acquiring the KFC and Dairy Queen franchises in June 2024, Platinum Brands has focused on strengthening operational foundations and identifying strategic locations for expansion. The company has successfully increased its KFC presence from 46 to 58 stores, with new openings in Chorrera Center, David Center, and Algarrobos already reporting strong customer traffic and promising early sales figures.
Khary Robinson, founder and executive chairman of Norbrook Equity Partners, emphasized the deliberate approach: “Our priority has been building a strong operational core. From enhancing service culture to refining leadership teams, every decision has been geared toward sustainable growth. The results are evident in both customer response and operational performance.”
The expansion plan is designed with a measured outlook, targeting 100 combined KFC and Dairy Queen locations by 2028. Platinum Brands’ on-the-ground leadership, CEO Juan Carlos Andrade and CFO Christian Sturla, have spearheaded the operational turnaround, focusing on service consistency, speed, product quality, and store experience improvements.
Robinson confirmed that growth is not limited to KFC alone, with enhancements ongoing across Dairy Queen operations and future openings planned. Financing for the expansion combines equity and debt instruments from JMMB Bank (Jamaica) Limited and BAC International Corporation, reflecting confidence from regional financial partners.
Ownership of Platinum Brands remains diversified: Norbrook Restaurant Holdings Limited holds a 60% stake, Sygnus Deneb Investments Limited 20%, and the Henriquez family alongside FirstRock Global Holdings Limited each maintain 10%.
This expansion is part of a broader trajectory of Norbrook’s investments across food, lifestyle, and consumer brands in the Caribbean and Central America. Other notable moves include the rebuilding of Pure National Limited’s ice production facility, acquisition of California-based Mighty Pilates by Express Fitness Limited, and Mailpac Group’s revenue growth following the MyCart Quick Limited acquisition.
With operational foundations solidified and strategic growth mapped, Platinum Brands positions itself to accelerate KFC and Dairy Queen expansion in Panama, underscoring Norbrook Equity Partners’ commitment to scaling high-potential regional businesses.
