Ampex Brands apparently likes brand ownership.
The franchisee of Yum Brands and 7-Eleven, which acquired the Au Bon Pain chain a year ago, has made its second deal for a concept with the acquisition of the eight-unit bistro concept Bellagreen.
Ampex finalized the deal for the chain earlier this week. Bellagreen operates locations in Dallas and Houston. “From the first time we set foot in a Bellagreen, we knew it would be the perfect addition to the Ampex family,” Ampex CEO Tabbassum Mumtaz said in a statement. He said Bellagreen is “pioneering a new path for the fast-casual industry.” He also vowed to introduce the brand “to every major city in the U.S.”
Bellagreen will keep some key executives, including Director of Culinary Silvestre Reyes and Regional Operator Erik Bednar. Ampex CFO Eric Easton and VP of Growth and Strategy Sameer Mumtaz will play integral roles in the strategic direction and operations for the chain.
Ampex said that it has tripled catering revenue at Au Bon Pain since acquiring the brand and said it has new locations proposed for 2022. Easton in a statement said he expects “a smooth transition” at Bellagreen.
It is the latest young growth concept to find a new owner, after the sale earlier this month of Slapfish to Mac Haik Enterprises. Hargett Hunter Capital Partners acquired a majority stake in Bellagreen in 2016, when the chain had five locations. Its menu features a range of sandwich, salad, pizzas and other entrees along with beer and wine. It also has a commitment to sustainability.
Mumtaz founded the Richardson, Tex.-based Ampex Brands in 2005. The company operates more than 500 locations in fast-food and convenience store businesses.
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