First Watch Increases Company-Owned Locations with Missouri Franchise Acquisition
Deal News | Apr 14, 2025 | Globenewswire
First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc., a renowned player in the Daytime Dining sector, announced its latest strategic move by acquiring three franchise-owned restaurants in Missouri, alongside their development rights. This latest acquisition, part of a broader growth initiative, sees First Watch absorbing the Lees Summit, West Columbia, and South Columbia establishments into its expanding corporate-owned portfolio. Having now acquired a total of 48 franchised restaurants since May 2023 across seven transactions, First Watch emphasizes the importance of these acquisitions in reinforcing their long-term growth strategy and tapping into new market potentials. These recent additions have been operational in the last five years and boast robust connections to their local communities. First Watch's reputation in the industry stands on its innovation and customer loyalty, having been recognized in various national rankings and awards. This move is indicative of the company’s focus on leveraging white space in key markets for sustainable growth. Further financial results and transaction details are anticipated in upcoming fiscal reports.
Sectors
- Restaurant and Food Service
- Franchising
- Corporate Expansion
Geography
- United States – The article and the companies involved are primarily based in the United States, with specific expansion activities in Missouri.
- Missouri – The specific geographic focus of the acquisition is in Missouri, where the three franchise restaurants are located.
Industry
- Restaurant and Food Service – The industry classification is relevant as the article focuses on the acquisition of restaurant locations and expansion strategies within the restaurant sector.
- Franchising – The article discusses franchise-owned restaurants and their acquisition, which falls under the franchising industry sector.
- Corporate Expansion – The article outlines strategic corporate growth and acquisition, relevant to this sector classification.
Financials
- 48 franchise acquisitions since May 2023 – Indicates the number of franchised restaurants acquired by First Watch over a series of transactions.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. | Acquirer | Company | First Watch is a leading daytime dining concept, known for its fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings, operating over 570 restaurants. |
| Franchise Restaurants (Lees Summit, West Columbia, South Columbia) | Target | Company | These are the franchise-owned restaurants in Missouri that First Watch acquired, incorporating them into its company-owned operations. |