Gridiron Capital has made an investment in Tokyo, Inc. (“Tokyo Joe’s”), a fast casual Asian restaurant chain.
“We are very excited to be partnering with Larry Leith, Greg MacDonald and the rest of the Tokyo Joe’s management team to acquire the business. Their passion, energy and commitment to providing great food and a great dining experience will be the foundation of the business’ growth potential,” said Thomas Burger Jr., Managing Partner of Gridiron Capital.
Tokyo Joe’s is a fast casual modern Asian restaurant chain that serves fresh made-to-order rice and noodle bowls, sushi and salads. The company currently operates 25 locations in the greater Denver metro area. Tokyo Joe’s was founded in 1996 and is based in Denver (www.tokyojoes.com).
“Tokyo Joe’s ability to provide customers with unrivaled fresh and healthy ingredients, coupled with the in store dining experience, makes it a unique and highly scalable platform,” said Greg MacDonald, Chief Executive Officer of Tokyo Joe’s. “With Gridiron’s support and the strength of the core brand, we believe Tokyo Joe’s is positioned for continued growth.”
Gridiron Capital invests in middle-market manufacturing, service and specialty consumer companies in the United States and Canada. The firm is based in New Canaan, CT (www.gridironcapital.com).
“Gridiron’s partnership with Tokyo Joe’s will enable the company to accelerate growth and to expand into new geographies,” said Kevin Jackson, Managing Director of Gridiron Capital. “Larry Leith and his team have built a tremendous concept over 17 years, and we are excited to partner with them to build on their legacy of success.”
© 2013 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 5-3-13