acquisitions

Behind Cava Group’s conversion of Zoe’s Kitchen restaurants

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 11, 2023

A Deeper Dive: Brett Schulman, CEO of Cava Group, joins the podcast to talk about a wide range of topics, including its rapid expansion thanks to its acquisition of Zoe’s Kitchen.

Financing

10 takeaways from the ICR Conference

By Jonathan Maze and Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 11, 2023

More acquisitions, slowing food costs, omnichannel business models and evolving loyalty programs all featured prominently in operators’ presentations during the three-day event in Orlando.

Financing

Olive Garden’s parent is in the market for another brand

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 10, 2023

Darden Restaurants signaled its interest in adding a 10th concept. It most recently acquired Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen in 2017.

Premium

Financing

Fat Brands, a ‘publicly-traded private equity firm,’ focuses on strategic deals

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 10, 2023

The Bottom Line: The owner of Twin Peaks, Johnny Rockets and Fazoli’s has shifted its attention to more targeted acquisitions and could spin off or sell some assets.

Premium

Financing

Why the next year will be huge for Burger King’s future

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 06, 2023

The Bottom Line: The bankruptcy of TOMS King Holdings may be the first domino in a substantial change in the burger chain’s franchisee base as it looks to turn itself around.

Financing

16 Handles acquires a cookie dough brand

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 03, 2023

DŌ Cookie Dough Confections, which makes cookie dough for baking and eating raw, is already being sold out of the frozen yogurt chain’s New York locations.

Financing