The parent company of Canadian quick-service chain Mary Brown’s Chicken plans to acquire Fat Bastard Burrito Co., MB International Brands announced Wednesday.
The deal would create one of the largest privately held fast-food chains in Canada, the company said. Details of the transaction, which is expected to close at the end of this month, were not disclosed.
Mary Brown’s Chicken was founded more than 50 years ago and has 215 stores across Canada, with 30 more openings planned by the end of the year. Fat Bastard Burrito operates or has under development 75 locations across Ontario.
The new owner hinted at the possibility of expanding the concepts outside of Canada.
“We are thrilled to bring together two premium, Canadian-born restaurant brands with solid track records of growth and success,” Hadi Chahin, president of MB International Brands, said in a statement. “The transaction combines two highly complementary franchise networks that, together, will provide more delicious choices for diners as well as more opportunities for existing and new franchisees of both brands across Canada and beyond.”
Both chains are known for working with local purveyors.
Fat Bastard Burrito executives will remain in place “through a transition period” to ensure continuity at both brands, the company said.
Mary Brown’s hand breads its chicken and hand cuts its potatoes in each restaurant. The chain uses proprietary cookers to achieve a “golden consistency and superior flavor,” it said.
Fat Bastard Burrito is known for its burritos, quesadillas, tacos and loaded waffle fries.
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