restaurants

Atlanta and New York City — Private equity funds managed by Blackstone have completed the acquisition of Tropical Smoothie Cafe, a leading franchisor of fast-casual restaurants, from Levine Leichtman Capital Partners. This marks the first transaction in Blackstone’s most recent vintage of its flagship private equity vehicle. “Tropical Smoothie Cafe is a nationally recognized brand with an impressive growth trajectory underpinned by a base of loyal franchisees and guests,” says Peter Wallace, a senior managing director, and Michael Staub, a managing director, in Blackstone’s private equity business. “With Blackstone’s capital …

San Diego — Jack in the Box Inc., a leading franchisor in the quick-service restaurant industry, has signed a development agreement to open 15 new Jack in the Box locations throughout Georgia. This expansion marks the company’s entry into the Peach State. “This new franchise commitment represents a significant step forward in our strategic expansion across the southeastern United States,” says Tim Linderman, chief development officer, noting that the 15 new franchise commitments in Georgia come on the heels of 30 recently announced commitments for Jack in the Box in …

Denver — Rosso Pomodoro, Italy’s largest Neapolitan pizza franchise, has launched franchise opportunities in the United States. Founded in Naples, Italy, in 1998, the Milan-based pizza chain has expanded globally to 70 locations in Italy and 140 locations worldwide including the operation of restaurants in 12 Eataly locations across the U.S. and Canada. The first two Rosso Pomodoro locations in the U.S. are set to open this month in Denver. Rosso Pomodoro’s U.S. franchise locations will offer a fast-casual concept for authentic Neapolitan pizza and other specialties. Backed by over …