KARACHI -- As Pakistan's population increases and urbanization gathers pace, demand for consumer goods is booming. A new restaurant or a foreign fashion brand appears almost weekly, underscoring the nation's transformation into a modern consumer society.
Multinationals are flocking here, attracted by an economy whose population is already the world's sixth largest and growing rapidly. U.S. fast-food brands Hardee's, Burger King and Johnny Rockets are all here, and Fatburger's biggest outlet anywhere is in Lahore. American competitor Steak 'n Shake announced plans in March to open 15 restaurants in the country, while Boneheads Grilled Fish and Chicken has chosen Pakistan for its first overseas location.
