US seafood restaurant chain Captain D's has announced its first-ever franchise development agreement in Canada.

The deal will introduce five new Captain D's locations to the Greater Toronto Metropolitan Area.

The company signed a franchise agreement with Ontario entrepreneurs Ali Saeed and Mudassir Choudri, both seasoned businessmen with experience operating groups of Shell gas stations in Ontario.

Ali Saeed said: “Mudassir and I have been building businesses in Ontario for many years and know what it takes to succeed in this market.

“We admire Captain D's forward-thinking real estate strategy and seafood niche in the fast-casual space. The brand's quality food at an affordable price point will do very well throughout Toronto.”

The expansion is part of Captain D's growth plans, which have seen the brand expand throughout 2023, reaching as far west as Utah and into northern US states including New York and New Jersey.

The brand, which originates from the southeastern US, is broadening its horizons with this strategic push into the Canadian market.

Captain D's chief development officer Brad Reed said: “As Captain D's continues to answer consumer and franchise demand in new territories, we have been looking for the right opportunity to bring our high-quality seafood to the Canadian market.

“Ali and Mudassir are ideal franchise owners to help us introduce this distinct brand in Ontario.

“We look forward to expanding our footprint with them and throughout the country, knowing that our flexible prototypes and expertise in converting existing properties resonate with entrepreneurs looking to add a proven quick-service concept to their portfolio.”

In addition to its Canadian expansion, the company has secured development deals within the US market.

In October 2023, it signed a franchise development agreement to launch in the greater New York City area.

The agreement will open three Captain D’s locations in the city, spearheaded by multi-brand franchisees Kelly Moughal and Muhammad Saleem.