FAT Brands Inc. is deepening its global footprint with an ambitious plan to open 10 co-branded Great American Cookies and Marble Slab Creamery locations across Iraq. The development agreement, to be executed over the next five years, reflects both the enduring appeal of American dessert brands and the growing appetite for Western dining experiences in the Middle East.
The expansion is being led by Eric Wilson, a 27-year U.S. military veteran whose service in Iraq provided him with a firsthand understanding of the region’s culture and consumer behavior. Wilson’s leadership is viewed as a key asset in navigating the local business environment and delivering on FAT Brands’ goal of creating accessible indulgence across international markets.
“We continue to see strong demand for our brands in global markets,” said Taylor Wiederhorn, Chief Development Officer at FAT Brands. “With this new development in Iraq, we are confident in the strength of our partnership and the opportunity to serve communities eager for American-style treats.”
Great American Cookies, established in 1977, has become a fixture in American malls and shopping centers, celebrated for its Original Cookie Cake and classic chocolate chip offerings. Marble Slab Creamery, a pioneer in customizable ice cream since its founding more than 40 years ago, remains known for its signature frozen slab preparation and premium mix-ins. Together, the brands create a compelling retail pairing that blends nostalgia with innovation.
For FAT Brands, which manages more than 2,300 restaurants worldwide across 18 concepts, this latest move signals more than expansion. It underscores the company’s broader strategy of pairing iconic American comfort food with local markets hungry for recognizable, high-quality brands. As the first of the new stores prepares to open, the partnership sets the stage for continued growth and cultural exchange through something as simple and universal as dessert.
