The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will invest €40 million in the Polish holding company Rex Concepts to support the expansion of the Burger King and Popeyes networks in Romania, Poland, and the Czech Republic. This capital injection, which will secure a 16.7% stake in the company for the EBRD, supports Burger King’s expansion strategy on the local market, where the brand aims to open 12-15 new units per year.
Since entering the Romanian market in 2019, Burger King has developed a network of over 40 restaurants nationwide, targeting both large cities and regional communities near major urban centers. Recently, the chain opened its first Drive-Thru restaurant in Bucharest, at Militari Fashion House. The expansion is coordinated by the Rex Concepts platform, owned by the Polish investment firm McWin, which aims to open 600 Burger King and Popeyes restaurants in Romania, Poland, and the Czech Republic over the next 10 years. McWin is led by Henry McGovern, the founder of AmRest, and Steven K. Winegar.
At the management level in Romania, Burger King announced in October 2025 the appointment of Raluca Lupu as Head of Operations Burger King & Popeyes Romania. Previously, in February 2023, Profit.ro first announced the recruitment of Cristian Turculeț as Chief Operating Officer of Rex Concepts. Turculeț previously held leadership positions at Sport Couture Group, Starbucks, and AmRest, the operator that initially relaunched Burger King in Romania, according to Profit.ro. The Popeyes chain, also in the group’s portfolio, was launched in Romania in early 2022. Founded in 1954, Burger King is currently the second-largest fast-food restaurant chain in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the EBRD investing in Burger King’s expansion?
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is investing €40 million in Rex Concepts to support the expansion.
Which countries are targeted for the Burger King and Popeyes expansion?
The expansion targets Romania, Poland, and the Czech Republic, with a goal of opening 600 restaurants over the next 10 years.
Who manages the expansion of these brands in the region?
The expansion is managed by Rex Concepts, a platform owned by the Polish investment firm McWin, led by Henry McGovern and Steven K. Winegar.