Maldives Airports Company Lts (MACL) has signed an agreement with US firm HMSHost to develop and operate world renowned franchises KFC and Pizza Hut in the waterfront restaurant in Velana International airport (VIA).

The agreement was signed between Adil Moosa, the managing director of MACL and Walter Seib, CEO of HMSHost in a ceremony held on 29th January 2018 at the VIP Lounge in VIA.

After signing the agreement, Adil told the press that they will be ready to provide service within four months time. He also added that the restaurant still has free slots and they are talking with more international brands to bring other franchises to the airport.

"HMS Host is the number one operator of franchise restaurants. Even now they are operating at airports of 120 countries. This company has been operating in this industry for more than 100 years now" said Adhil.

Speaking at the ceremony, the CEO of HMS Host Walter Saib said that it was an honour to operate in a beautiful country such as Maldives. He also stated that they are looking forward to begin operations in the Maldives and promised that hundreds of jobs will open with this venture and assured the number of tourists visiting Maldives will increase because of their brands.

VIA said that the structural works for the 14,000 square foot building to establish food and beverage outlets will be completed by the end of this month.

HMSHost is a renowned company for its highway and airport food services. They currently operate restaurants in over 150 airports around the world.