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Smokey Mo’s BBQ acquired by Switchback Capital

The 16-unit quick-service chain will be opened to franchising and will undergo a rebrand, the new owner said.
Smokey Mo's TX BBQ
Logo courtesy Smokey Mo's TX BBQ

Austin-based Smokey Mo’s TX BBQ has been acquired by private-equity firm Switchback Capital, the company announced Thursday.

Smokey Mo’s has 16 locations in Texas and has been in operation for 21 years.

Details of the transaction were not disclosed, and Smokey Mo’s did not respond to a Restaurant Business request to comment on the deal.

It’s the first investment for Switchback, which said it focuses on Central Texas businesses that are “cash-flow positive with growth prospects,” according to a statement.

“There is clear promise for broad, rapid expansion, as well as modernizing our existing Smokey Mo’s locations,” Switchback Capital Principal Todd Caven said in a statement.

The quick-service chain is looking to start franchising and is at work on a company rebrand as well as a modernized store prototype.

Smokey Mo’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu that focuses on smoked meats, such as brisket, pork ribs and jalapeno sausage. The brisket is smoked in-house for 10 to 14 hours each day.

 

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