Atlanta — Gala Capital Partners (GCP), an investment firm focused on emerging restaurant franchise brands, has reached an agreement to purchase Rusty Taco from Atlanta-based Inspire Brands. The terms of the deal were not disclosed. The Rusty Taco leadership team has co-invested in the acquisition and will remain in place to guide this new phase of the brand’s evolution. Inspire Brands acquired a majority interest in the Rusty Taco brand along with its purchase of Buffalo Wild Wings in 2018. Inspire successfully reinvigorated the brand, clarifying its positioning and rebranding …
Anand Gala
Dallas — MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes, the “better burger” fast-casual franchise, has hired key executives — including president and COO — that will enhance franchisee support and prepare for rapid franchise development. The company has added a new president and COO, Tony Darden, who comes to MOOYAH after serving as COO at Taco Bueno. Prior to Taco Bueno, Darden spent more than a decade at Panera Bread and more than 15 years at Bennigan’s. MOOYAH also added a new director of supply chain, a real estate and development manager, …