Cinnabon comes to Libya

On July 2, Cinnabon made history, becoming the first American franchise to open a location in Libya. The 7,500 square-foot bakery-cafe in downtown Tripoli also sells Carvel ice cream and is the first of at least 10 locations franchisees Arief and Ahmed Swaidek plan to open in Libya in the next four years. Cinnabon, which already has locations in major Middle East markets, also wants to expand into Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco.

Libyan Cinnabons are slated to "feature classic menu items as well as ‘locally created’ sandwiches, salads and baked goods," along with cakes and pies imported from Italy. Focus Brands International, Cinnabon’s overseas expansion partner, also works with other fast-food chains like Moe’s Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky’s, and Auntie Anne’s pretzels. No word yet on whether Libyans will get to experience the wonders of giant pretzels or Tex-Mex in the near future.