 Further expansion moves were also made in other global markets during 2012 . The African market saw a new agreement with Grand Parade Investments of South Africa to enter Africa 's largest economy , with restaurants opening in 2013 . In Europe , Burger King returned to the French market in 2012 with an agreement with multinational operator Autogrill , a move that has met with some excitement in the country . The chain left the country in 1997 , closing its 22 franchised and 17 corporate locations after a poorly executed entry into the market that left it unable to compete against McDonald 's and local chain Quick . The partnership with Autogrill is a move to consolidate Burger King 's presence in travel plazas along major highways in France , Italy , Poland and other European nations . 
