TowerBrook-Backed Azzurri Eyes Sale of Dave’s Hot Chicken Rights
Azzurri Group, the UK restaurant operator owned by private equity firm TowerBrook Capital Partners, is exploring a potential sale of the UK and European franchise rights for Dave’s Hot Chicken, with a process that could launch later this year, according to a report by Bloomberg citing unnamed people familiar with the matter. The people requested anonymity because the discussions are private.
Background on Azzurri’s Franchise Acquisition
Azzurri secured the master franchise for Dave’s Hot Chicken in the UK and Ireland in 2024, outlining plans to open as many as 60 locations, according to company filings. It subsequently expanded the agreement to obtain exclusive franchise rights across ten European markets.
Details of the Potential Sale
The exploration of a sale involves the UK and European franchise rights, as reported by Bloomberg. This development follows Azzurri’s recent expansion of its franchise agreements for the brand.
About Dave’s Hot Chicken
Dave’s Hot Chicken was founded in 2017 by three friends who launched the concept from a parking lot in East Hollywood and has grown rapidly through a franchise-led model, according to the report. The fast-casual chain focuses on Nashville-style chicken sliders, tenders, and crinkle-cut fries with a range of spice levels. As widely known in the fast-casual dining sector, franchise models like this one enable rapid expansion by leveraging local operators.
