• June 18, 2008

In an agreement with MDS Foods Pte. Ltd. and Global Food Connection, LLC, CKE Restaurants will open a combined 25 new Hardee's restaurants in Pakistan over the next five years. MDS Foods will open 15 Hardee's units in Lahore over the next five years, and Global Food will open 10 Hardee's in Karachi over the next four years.

The Pakistan agreements are part of CKE's overall strategic plan to accelerate franchise development in international markets. Currently, CKE Restaurants franchises 294 international units between both its Carl's Jr. and Hardee's brands. CKE is expected to open its 300th international restaurant during the second quarter of the current fiscal year.

The company also announced on Tuesday that it is adding Strawberry Biscuits to its Hardee's breakfast menu. The item is sold individually, or in 2- or 6-pack boxes for $0.99, $1.59 and $3.59, respectively. It can also be purchased in a small combo, featuring hash rounds and a small coffee, juice or drink for $2.59.

--Nina M. Lentini