Toronto-based company establishes U.S. headquarters in Lakewood Ranch

Hot Brands International, a restaurant company based out of Toronto, Canada, has established its U.S. headquarters in Lakewood Ranch.

According to a press release by the Manatee Economic Development Corporation, the company plans to add 12 corporate office employees and plans to launch a fast-casual concept over the next three years.

County commissioners recently approved $12,000 in performance-based incentives for the company. The state of Florida also committed $48,000 to accelerate the company's location and hiring.

Hot Brands International has more than 800 employees worldwide with restaurants throughout the country.

“Much of the United States remains underserved in terms of healthy, contemporary and quick ethnic cuisine,” Kanak Balm vice president of business development for Hot Brands International said. “HBI looks forward to bringing our newest concept to the region.”

Contact Eddie Kirsch at [email protected].