Financing

Montreal's Foodtastic buys control of Shoeless Joe's chain

The deal adds a 19th brand to the Canadian franchisor's holdings, which include Milestones and Pita Pit.
Photograph: Shutterstock

A Canadian franchisor of 18 concepts encompassing 700 units said it has acquired a controlling interest in 22-store Shoeless Joe’s Sports Grill.

The size and price of the stake purchased by Montreal-based Foodtastic were not revealed.

Shoeless Joe’s, founded by Fred Lopreiato, operates exclusively within Canada. The buyer indicated that it intends to expand the brand throughout its native country.

“It is a great sports bar brand that will fit in perfectly in our restaurant portfolio" Peter Mammas, CEO of Foodtastic, said in a statement. "We are excited that Frank Lopreiato will stay on board as an equity partner and lead the brand.”

Foodtastic’s other brands include Milestones, Pita Pit, Second Cup, La Belle et La Boeuf, Monza, Copper Branch, Carlos & Pepe's, Souvlaki Bar, Nickels, Au Coq, Rotisseries Fusée, Rotisseries Benny, Chocolato, Big Rig, La Chambre, L'Gros Luxe, Gatto Matto and Bacaro.

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