Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:
In a milestone for workplace inclusion, Pizza Hut, in collaboration with Americana Restaurants, has launched its first restaurant in Saudi Arabia operated by staff with hearing and speech impairments. The initiative coincides with the International Week of Deaf People 2024 and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 goals of empowering all individuals.
This restaurant is part of the global “Opportunity4All” programme, which seeks to create equal employment opportunities regardless of physical challenges.
Celebrating Inclusion: A Landmark Event:
The opening event in Riyadh brought together representatives from:
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Sa3ee for Rehabilitation & Employment of Disabilities
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The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development
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Yum! Brands
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Americana Restaurants
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held, attended by specially-abled team members, their families, and VIPs. The event included sign language interpretation, reinforcing the brand’s deep commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
Empowering Talent Through Strategic Partnerships:
The restaurant’s launch highlights a significant collaboration with Sa3ee, a local NGO that supported hiring and training. With the Ministry’s endorsement, the project emphasizes integration of people of determination into the national workforce.
Americana Restaurants upgraded store infrastructure, adapted training programs, and created inclusive systems to support staff members with disabilities.
“We at Americana are proud to expand our community of People of Determination,” said Amarpal Sandhu, CEO, Americana Restaurants. “This is our seventh such store in the region, and we are committed to growing further.”
Nadine El Hadad, Chief People Officer, Pizza Hut Global Franchise Markets, noted,
“We believe in the power of diverse talents. This launch is a symbolic step toward lasting inclusivity.”
Driving National Change:
Marzouk Bin Amria, Chairman of Sa3ee, emphasized the impact of business-NGO partnerships:
“This initiative proves how collaboration can reshape employment landscapes for individuals with disabilities.”
Fawaz Al Malki, Director General at the Ministry’s Riyadh Branch, stated:
“This programme supports Saudi Vision 2030 by building a workforce that values every individual’s potential.”
Future Plans: Expansion Across the Kingdom:
The new restaurant, located in Andalusian Plaza, 4034 Salman Al Farsi Street, Al Nahda, Riyadh, marks just the beginning. Pizza Hut and Americana plan to roll out similar inclusive outlets across Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East.
Senior team members have received sign language training to ensure seamless communication and operational support. The ultimate goal is to make every future store accessible and welcoming for all.
This inclusive dining experience not only serves great food but also sets a new standard for corporate responsibility in the Kingdom—offering dignity, empowerment, and opportunity to a truly deserving workforce.
Source: TN Media News – https://tnmn.tv
