Hooters of America Inc. to open restaurants in Israel

<p>Hooters, the restaurant chain known for its tasty wings and scantily clad servers, is heading to Israel.</p><p>Atlanta-based Hooters of America Inc. said in a statement Monday that it has reached a franchise deal with llana and Ofer Ahiraz to open the first Hooters restaurant this year in Israel, with more locations in Israel to follow.</p><p>The statement did not say where in Israel the first Hooters will open or provide background on the franchisees; A Hooters spokesperson did not immediately return an e-mail and several phone calls Tuesday seeking comment.</p><p>There are over 430 Hooters Restaurants in the United States and 23 other countries, including China, Australia, Switzerland and Brazil.</p><p>The chain plans to expand over the next two years to Colombia, Dubai, Guam, New Zealand and India.</p><p>The chain said international expansion is a key focus for the company.</p><p>Hooters, a privately held company started in 1983, is known for its spicy chicken wings and the women who serve them, which the chain refers to as "Hooters Girls."</p><p>Besides their revealing attire of low-cut, tight tank tops and short orange shorts circa the 1980s, the waitresses are known for their playful banter and friendly smiles.</p><p>The chain has about $900 million in yearly sales and is expected to cross the $1 billion mark for the first time this year.</p><p>___</p><p>On the Net:</p><p>HASH(0x1cd9c54)</p>