BBQ Holdings

BBQ Holdings, Inc. is a prominent American restaurant company specializing in the franchising, ownership, and operation of casual and fast-casual dining establishments. Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, the company has expanded its portfolio to include several well-known brands, each offering a unique dining experience.

The company's flagship brand, Famous Dave's, is renowned for its authentic barbecue offerings, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, complemented by a variety of signature sauces. With over 180 locations across the United States and international presence in the United Arab Emirates, it has become a staple in the barbecue dining scene.

In addition to Famous Dave's, BBQ Holdings operates Granite City Food & Brewery, a casual American restaurant concept emphasizing fresh, made-from-scratch cuisine and handcrafted beers. The brand boasts over 20 locations in states such as Minnesota, Illinois, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, offering a diverse menu in an industrial-chic setting.

Real Urban Barbecue provides a fast-casual dining experience focused on smoked meats and homemade sauces, along with classic sides like coleslaw and potato salad. It currently has three locations in Illinois, catering to those seeking a quick yet flavorful barbecue meal.

Other Brands in the Portfolio

The company's portfolio also includes Village Inn and Bakers Square, both known for their breakfast offerings and signature pies, adding a family dining element to BBQ Holdings. Tahoe Joe's Steakhouse is recognized for its steaks and chops cooked over an open wood pellet broiler, providing a unique dining experience.

Additionally, the acquisition of Barrio Queen introduced authentic Mexican cuisine to the company's diverse portfolio, expanding its culinary offerings.

Company Size and Growth

As of August 2022, BBQ Holdings had over 100 company-owned locations and more than 200 franchised locations, including ghost kitchens operating out of shared kitchen spaces. Its expansion strategy has been supported by strategic acquisitions such as Barrio Queen, marking its largest acquisition to date.

Merger and Acquisition

In August 2022, BBQ Holdings entered into a definitive merger agreement with MTY Food Group, a Canadian-based company, to acquire all issued and outstanding common shares at $17.25 per share, totaling approximately $200 million. The acquisition was finalized in September 2022, further expanding MTY Food Group's presence in the U.S. market.

Mission and Vision

BBQ Holdings' mission centers on delivering high-quality products and exceptional customer service, aiming to be the premier destination for barbecue enthusiasts. The company is committed to innovation, community engagement, and environmental responsibility.

They have plans for global expansion and strategic partnerships to enhance brand visibility, ensuring sustained growth and customer satisfaction.

Locations

• Glendale, AZ, USA
• Knoxville, TN, USA
• Surprise, AZ, USA
• Milwaukee, WI, USA
• Santa Monica, CA, USA
• Saint Paul, MN, USA
• Fargo, ND, USA
• Naperville, IL, USA
• Fort Wayne, IN, USA
• Troy, MI, USA
• Louisville, KY, USA
• Tempe, AZ, USA
• Denver, CO, USA
• Hermitage, TN, USA
• Schaumburg, IL, USA
• Sioux Falls, SD, USA
• Des Moines, IA, USA
• Clive, IA, USA
• Aurora, CO, USA

With a diverse portfolio of brands and a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, BBQ Holdings continues to be a significant player in the American dining industry, offering a variety of dining experiences to meet the tastes of a broad customer base.