Whataburger is looking to expand.
The family-owned Texas restaurant chain sold its majority ownership to BDT Capital Partners, a Chicago investment firm and are hoping the move will allow them to successfully expand. "Together, BDT and the Whataburger team will begin exploring expansion plans – while staying true to the brand it has been over the past 69 years," the company wrote in a statement. "The company also announced an internal leadership realignment to position the brand for long-term growth and success. Most notably, the company named several new internal promotions, including a president, chief operating officer and chief restaurant operating officer."
An inside look at Whataburger business strategy pic.twitter.com/b4SY2SRstX
Although the company has expansions on its mind, their headquarters will stay in San Antonio.
“Whataburger has grown significantly over the years. And, in order to keep satisfying our customers, we’ve been exploring different options to expand the brand and introduce it to new audiences," ” Whataburger President/CEO Preston Atkinson said. "We’ve gone through this process purposefully and diligently because we wanted to find a partner who honors our values, culture and 69-year legacy of family tradition."
Texans on social media seem not too happy with the move.
whataburger got bought... by a... chicago... investment... firm? pic.twitter.com/mvwrcZIj4E
Whataburger: gets sold
Texans: pic.twitter.com/l66jnoOUQz
Texans when they hear whataburger sold to Chicago firm pic.twitter.com/XQxOMqqGfv
Ok, I say we all chip in and buy Whataburger back. Make honey butter chicken biscuits available all day, add kolaches to the menu and change nothing else. Especially not the ketchup. https://t.co/HadutHXJ9l
