Meet Victor Nguyen, Houston’s Inaugural Thai Express Franchise Owner

Freshness and strong support were the selling points for this small business owner who is eager to introduce a new concept to his growing community

When small business owner Victor Nguyen and his wife wanted to open a restaurant venture, they knew from experience they would need support and expertise. After looking at many options, they settled on a Thai Express franchise because they believe a Thai food franchise will be a strong addition to their busy community Houston, Texas.

“We have a nail salon, and we wanted another business that we could grow but that would not tie up all the time we have,” Nguyen explains. “We have two children, and want to spend more time with them. I knew a franchise would be the way to go because I can have the support I need to get started and also have a strong team of people working for me.”

Busy location will be highly visible

The Nguyens are looking for a spring opening, and their Thai Express will be situated in a brand-new shopping center in the rapidly growing northern part of Houston. Well-known retail stores will anchor the development, which should see strong foot traffic throughout the day and evening.

The help he received from the real estate development team at Kahala Brands™ when it came to location scouting proved that he had made a smart decision, Nguyen says.

“When I began my research, I wanted to look for an Asian theme, and the Thai Express name was new to me,” he says. “I liked everything I read about the franchisor, and I went to Montreal to meet them and to see the restaurants themselves. I loved everything I saw, and tasted, and already they have been so supportive. I think we have a lot of potential to grow the Thai Express franchise brand here.”

Authentic cuisine sealed the deal

Although Nguyen has been in Houston for a decade after spending time at school in Florida, he is originally from Vietnam. So, when he says he understands the differences between types of Asian cuisine, and that a Thai food franchise has to be authentic, he knows what he’s talking about.

“Asian food is very fresh and has unique flavors, and Thai food in particular is very fresh and tropical,” he says. “The vegetables used are right off the farm. I see that in the few small, ‘mom and pop’ Thai restaurants that are here, and I see that with Thai Express. I liked everything about the company but I knew I had to like the food a well, and it was very good. Houston is a very diverse area in terms of cuisine, and I think Thai Express will be a very good addition here.”

Bring Thai Express to your community today

Thai Express is a low-cost investment opportunity with high potential for growth as it expands across the United States. Startup costs range from $370,900 to $832,700, depending on the model. Since 2004, Thai Express has spread across the Canadian market with a business model built for entrepreneurs who are passionate about bringing an authentic and affordable Thai food experience to their communities. The franchise fee for the first Thai Express franchise is $30,000, and the franchise fee for multiple units can be discounted if certain conditions and criteria are met. For more information, download our free franchise information report.