Dickey's opening in Pakistan

Dallas-based Dickey's Barbecue Pit is expanding to Pakistan via a franchise deal with A.J. Corporation. The first location will open later this year in Lahore, Jim Perkins, VP of International Development for Dickey's Barbecue Pit, said in a company press release.

"Having had the opportunity to learn about the A.J. Corporation, sit and converse with Azam Bhatti, the founder, as well as visit Pakistan with our partner Mazhar Zaidi, our brand is in solid hands as we begin our journey in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan," he said.

Since opening its first overseas locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in 2018, this deal marks the sixth international location for Dickey's, which has more than 500 units in the U.S.

The A.J. Corporation acquired full franchising rights for Pakistan, which include a total development of 20 stores spread out over the next 10 years and plans to offer a variety of menu items, delivery and catering options.

"We have a love for barbecue, because of its unique taste and we are excited to introduce Pakistan to Dickey's Legit. Texas. Barbecue," Bhatti said in the release.