finance

Red Lobster's owner 'not expecting much' from sale

By Joe Guszkowski on Feb. 20, 2024

The struggling seafood chain lost more than $22 million last year, said Thai Union Group, which is looking to offload the brand.

Financing

Fast-growing 7 Brew Coffee gets growth investment from Blackstone

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 15, 2024

With the transaction, early investor Jimmy John Liautaud of sandwich chain fame sold his stake in the drive-thru coffee-stand concept.

Financing

An activist investor is pushing BJ's to sell itself

By Joe Guszkowski on Feb. 13, 2024

Pleasant Lake Partners said the chain is underperforming but would make an attractive acquisition target.

Premium

Emerging Brands

How Tacos 1986 is scaling the magic of a Tijuana-style taqueria

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 12, 2024

It has been a journey that involved pure grit, stretching the truth at times and former first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. But this seven-unit Los Angeles chain is preparing for the next phase of growth.

Financing

The world's largest restaurant franchise group may be for sale

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 08, 2024

The largest shareholders behind the massive Flynn Group are considering a sale of a majority stake, according to media reports.

Financing

Slimmed-down Pizza Inn and Pie Five continue profitability streak

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 01, 2024

Parent company Rave Restaurant Group said it made about $600,000 during its second quarter, about twice its net income from a year ago.

Financing

Savory Fund backs smoothie, acai bowl concept South Block

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 31, 2024

The majority stake marks the 12th restaurant investment for the Utah-based private-equity firm and the first in its $200 million Savory Fund III portfolio.

Financing

US Foods awarded $15M default judgment against Boston Market

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 30, 2024

A federal court judge cited the fast-casual chain's "willful disregard" for the litigation in ruling in favor of the giant distributor, which had sued for unpaid bills.

Financing