The Fort Worth-founded Fuzzy's Taco Shop could soon be making its way nationwide.
The restaurant was recently purchased for $80 million (in cash) by the parent company of both Applebee's and IHOP Dine Brands Global Inc.
Fuzzy's current owner was Experiential Brands, a platform of Atlanta's NRD Capital Management
Fuzzy's founder Mel Knight said in a prepared statement per WFAA, "We had many options when evaluating the ideal partner to help accelerate the growth of Fuzzy's Taco Shop.
"We selected NRD because of their operator-centric mentality, flexible capital and unparalleled franchising experience."
Paul Damico, CEO of Fuzzy's, added, "I'm incredibly proud of the work the Fuzzy's team and franchisees have accomplished over the past few years, which has enabled us to enter this new chapter of growth together with Dine Brands."
Fuzzy's is expected to generate about $230 million in sales this year, and now spans 138 restaurants across 18 states. About 98% of the Fuzzy's system is franchised.
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