Chicken Inn Eyes Expansion with FUZ Acquisition Leading Zimbabwean fast-food chain, Chicken Inn, has announced its intent to acquire a majority stake in FUZ, a popular pizza and chicken restaurant chain. The deal, if successful, would significantly expand Chicken Inn’s footprint and strengthen its position in the local market. According to sources close to the negotiations, Chicken Inn is offering a premium price for FUZ, reflecting the latter’s strong brand recognition and loyal customer base. The acquisition would give Chicken Inn access to FUZ’s 15 outlets across the country, significantly boosting its presence in urban areas. “This acquisition would be a strategic move for Chicken Inn, allowing us to capitalize on the growing demand for pizza and chicken in Zimbabwe,” said Chicken Inn CEO, Mike Nyabadza. “FUZ has built an impressive brand and customer base, which we believe we can leverage to drive further growth.” FUZ, known for its signature pizzas and flame-grilled chicken, has been a major competitor to Chicken Inn in the casual dining segment. The acquisition would be a significant consolidation in the industry, reducing competition and creating a more formidable market leader. Analysts believe that the deal could unlock significant synergies for Chicken Inn. The combined entity would have a broader menu offering, larger market reach, and potential cost savings through economies of scale. Additionally, Chicken Inn’s strong supply chain and distribution network could benefit FUZ’s operations. However, the transaction is not without its challenges. The Competition and Tariff Commission would need to approve the acquisition, ensuring it does not result in anti-competitive practices. Additionally, Chicken Inn would need to successfully integrate FUZ’s operations into its own to maximize efficiency and customer satisfaction. If successful, the Chicken Inn-FUZ deal would be a major milestone in the Zimbabwean fast-food industry. It would create a dominant player with increased market share and enhanced growth potential.Bulawayo Chiefs Face Deadline to Pay Midfielder or Risk Losing HimBulawayo Chiefs Face Deadline to Pay Midfielder or Risk Losing Him Bulawayo Chiefs midfielder Miguel Feldman is on the verge of leaving the club if his outstanding salaries are not paid promptly. Amidst financial struggles, the Ninjas have received default notice from the Footballers Union of Zimbabwe (FUZ) to settle Feldman’s dues by July 8th. Failure to comply will result in the termination of his contract, allowing him to join a club of his choice. Sources indicate that Chicken Inn is among the clubs interested in acquiring Feldman. Despite having a running contract with Bulawayo Chiefs, the midfielder has engaged FUZ seeking payment for five months of unpaid salary. FUZ spokesperson Wonder Sithole confirmed the union’s involvement in assisting Feldman. He stated that the player’s contract will be terminated and he will be declared a free agent if the outstanding salaries are not paid by the deadline. Efforts to reach out to Bulawayo Chiefs for comment were unsuccessful. The club has a history of financial difficulties and has lost several key players as a result. Last year, they lost striker Obriel Chirinda to Ngezi Platinum Stars, and have seen the departures of other players such as Malvin Mkolo, Mthokozisi Msebe, and Billy Veremu. Coach Thulani Sibanda has been forced to raid Division One clubs and add veterans to fill the gaps in his squad for the 2024 season. Despite the financial challenges, Bulawayo Chiefs have managed to remain in the Premier Soccer League since their promotion in 2018.Chicken Inn Eye Acquisition of FUZ Restaurant group Chicken Inn is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire fast-food chain FUZ. Sources close to the negotiations say the deal could be announced as early as next week. Chicken Inn, known for its popular fried chicken, has been expanding rapidly in recent years. The acquisition of FUZ would give it a stronger presence in the fast-food market and access to FUZ’s loyal customer base. FUZ, founded in 1995, has over 100 locations across Zimbabwe and neighboring countries. It specializes in burgers, wraps, and sides. The company has faced financial challenges in recent years, making it an attractive target for acquisition. Analysts say the deal would be a win-win for both companies. Chicken Inn would gain market share and diversify its portfolio, while FUZ would benefit from Chicken Inn’s operational expertise and financial resources. The proposed acquisition is subject to regulatory approval. However, sources say the companies are confident that the deal will be completed without any major hurdles. If the deal goes through, it will mark a significant consolidation in Zimbabwe’s fast-food industry. Chicken Inn would become one of the largest restaurant groups in the country, with a combined network of over 300 locations.