Franchising

Amici Partners buys Friendly's

January 19, 2021

Amici Partners Group LLC has completed acquisition of the 130-unit Friendly's Restaurant chain. Amici, comprised of experienced restaurant investors and operators, plans to keep all locations of the chain open, according to a news release.

"The investors of Amici Partners Group LLC have been involved with the Friendly's Restaurant brand in many capacities over the years, not only as owners/operators and leaders in the system, but also as longtime loyal customers of this iconic brand," Craig Erlich, president and CEO of Amici Partners and its affiliated company, BRIX Holdings LLC, said in the news release. "Based on our personal connection to the chain, strong investment capabilities and seasoned management team, we believe we will be able to continue to reinvigorate this much-loved brand for both loyal patrons and new customers alike."

Friendly's is a well-known East Coast brand that has stores in other areas of the country that adhere to different restaurant service categories, including QSR and casual dining. Brix Holdings portfolio includes Red Mango Yogurt Café Smoothie & Juice Bar, Smoothie Factory Juice Bar, Red Brick Pizza Kitchen Café, Orange Leaf, Humble Donut Co. and Souper Salad chains.

Brix is based in Dallas, while Amici is headquartered in New York City. Friendly's is based in Wilbraham, Massachusetts.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, nor was any information provided about current chain leadership under the acquisition.