The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Sabo Ventures in the sale of its 10 Burger King restaurant operations and related real estate to GPS Hospitality. The restaurants are located in Athens and Atlanta, Georgia. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured the deal terms, and advised Sabo Ventures throughout the transaction process.

“I’ve known the Cypress team for years and have always been impressed by their professionalism and experience in guiding my alternatives as an owner and ultimately a seller. In the recent sale of my restaurants, Cypress identified a creative solution that allowed Sabo Ventures to maximize the proceeds on the sale of my Burger King restaurants and related real estate. By packaging two separate transactions in adjacent markets, Cypress created scale for both the buyer and sellers and enabled all groups to pursue a transaction on favorable terms. This transaction closed on schedule with minimal complications. I can and will highly recommend Carty, Dean, and Cypress to my Burger King colleagues in the future.” –Frank Sabo, CEO of Sabo Venture.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Stanton & Associates, Inc. in the sale of its 67 Wendy’s restaurants to Starboard Holdings, LLC. The restaurants are located in Central and Southeastern Michigan. Starboard Holdings is an affiliate of Starboard Group and is controlled by longtime Wendy’s franchisee, Andrew Levy. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured the deal terms, and advised Stanton & Associates throughout the transaction process.

"Cypress played a pivotal role in the sale of our Wendy’s restaurants, so I must truly commend Bill Pabst, Carty Davis, and the rest of the team for a job well done. Their overall professionalism and strategic guidance were crucial throughout the entire process, and they were instrumental in negotiating favorable terms and achieving such successful results. I was incredibly pleased with Cypress’ performance and would highly recommend them to anyone looking to sell their business.”

– Mark Behm, President of Stanton & Associates, Inc.

The Cypress Group acted as exclusive advisor to RD Management, LLC in the valuation and sale of its Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Arby's business.

"The RD in our company's name stands for 'Realizing Dreams'. Dan Collins and the Cypress team helped me, and my longtime business partner Kathy Buschak, realize our retirement dreams after long and successful careers in the Arby's system. We couldn't be happier with the guidance, process, and results delivered by Cypress!" - Doug Potter, Owner, RD Management

Cypress provided strategic guidance, valuation services, identification of potential buyers, and deal negotiation for RD Management.

The Cypress Group acted as exclusive advisor to Magic Burgers in the valuation and sale of its 85 Burger King restaurants located in Florida.

Cypress provided strategic guidance, valuation services, identification of potential buyers, and deal negotiation for Magic Burgers.

The Cypress Group acted as QSR M&A Advisor to NPC International in the Chapter 11 sale of its Wendy's and Pizza Hut businesses for $801 million. This transaction involved the sale of over 1,300 Wendy's and Pizza Hut locations across 27 states, making it one of the largest franchisee sale transactions on record.

Cypress CEO Dean Zuccarello sat down with Mary Jo Larson of the Restaurant Finance Monitor and Eddy Goldberg of the Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine to discuss our experience in facilitating what has been called the "Deal of the Decade" by industry professionals.

You can find both of these interviews by clicking on each of the publication's respective logos.

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The Cypress Group is serving as exclusive advisor to Wendy’s in the refranchising of approximately 540 Company restaurants across 15 markets in the United States.

These markets include Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, West Palm Beach, Springfield/Albany, Shreveport, Boston, Baton Rouge/Lafayette, Cincinnati, Charleston, Atlanta, New York, Raleigh-Durham, New Orleans, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, and Chicago.

Cypress is providing strategic guidance and valuation services, identifying potential acquirers, and structuring deal terms for Wendy’s.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to TGI Fridays in the refranchising of 139 Company restaurants across 10 markets in the United States. These markets include Central Florida, South Florida, Chicago, Minneapolis, Indianapolis, Detroit, Boston, Upstate New York, Philadelphia, and New Jersey.

“Cypress did an excellent job supporting our recent refranchising initiative. They brought a collaborative approach to this key strategic problem with their industry knowledge, network, and M&A expertise combining to produce results that exceeded our expectations. The entire Cypress team brings a great deal of professionalism and expertise to the table. I have recommended them to our franchisees and I would not hesitate to recommend them to others with similar needs.”

– Tom Kurrikoff, TGI Fridays CFO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Space Coast Foods, LLC and Square Treasure Foods, LLC in the sale of 25 Wendy’s restaurants to Starboard Investment Holdings, LLC. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, negotiated the deal structure, and advised the owners of Space Coast Foods and Square Treasure Foods throughout the transaction process.

“I selected Cypress due to their tenured expertise in the industry as well as their extensive and intimate knowledge of the Wendy’s system. I ultimately recognized the inherent advantages of working with a trusted advisor to prepare a comprehensive selling memorandum, deliver the market, negotiate a deal, and bring the transaction process to a successful conclusion. Choosing The Cypress Group was truly the right decision on all fronts. I would not hesitate to utilize their services in the future or recommend them to others.” – Hans Sohlen, Partner at Space Coast Foods

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Twoton, Inc. in the sale of 36 Burger King restaurants to GPS Hospitality, LLC. The restaurants are located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured deal terms, and advised the owners of Twoton throughout the transaction process.

Twoton was one of the original Burger King franchisees, operating since 1967. GPS Hospitality is one of the largest Burger King franchisees with approximately 150 restaurants across Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Georgia, and West Virginia.

“The pivotal role The Cypress Group played in the recent sale of our Burger King restaurants cannot be overstated. Their guidance was crucial in navigating the many complexities of the journey from first intention to final sale. We were impressed by their nuanced understanding of the market, strategic acuity, and no-nonsense approach. The Cypress team was consistently incisive, thorough, and professional in all of their efforts. We feel their expert valuation of the business, impressive offering circular, and skillful support during the negotiation process were instrumental in the successful results we achieved. We could not have been happier with their representation and would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone considering the sale or lease of their restaurants.” – Alan Harrington, President of Twoton

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to SDI, LLC in the sale of 11 Sonic restaurants and related real estate properties to Saja Restaurant Group, LLC. The restaurants are located in Richmond, Virginia. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured deal terms, and advised the owners of SDI throughout the transaction process.

“We were all very impressed with the efficiency and professionalism displayed by the Cypress team. We were especially impressed by the thoroughness and accuracy of their analysis and preparation of marketing materials. We are convinced the quality of Cypress’ product and representation were major factors that resulted in the outstanding results we achieved. We look forward to working with Cypress in the future and would highly recommend them to anyone contemplating the sale of their restaurants.” – John Platten, President of SDI

The Cypress Group acted as exclusive advisor to Fire Grill, LLC and affiliates in the sale of 42 Burger King restaurants to GPS Hospitality. The restaurants are located in Cincinnati, Ohio and were owned by Fire Grill through a private equity firm located in Southern California. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured the transaction, and advised Fire Grill through the closing.

“Cypress was invaluable to Fire Grill as an advisor in this transaction. There is much more to a successful deal than simply finding a buyer and agreeing on a price, and Cypress made all the difference in helping us navigate the waters and consummate the transaction. We had a challenging process and a sophisticated buyer who conducted extensive due diligence. We encountered a few thorny issues along the way, and Cypress was instrumental in helping us resolve them to the satisfaction of both buyer and seller. We are extremely pleased with the outcome, and would recommend Cypress to anyone.” – Chris Brill, Managing Member of Fire Grill

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive advisor to R & R Ventures in the acquisition of 28 Taco Bell restaurants in Atlanta, Georgia. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential lenders, negotiated deal terms, and advised the owners of R & R Ventures throughout the process.

“Cypress’ services were invaluable in understanding the details of the M & A markets, the most competitive lenders, and the alternatives available. We were able to take advantage of a favorable credit environment to lower our debt service and secure new development capital. Cypress’ knowledge of the Taco Bell system and their relationship with the lender community were invaluable to our company. We have utilized Cypress on numerous occasions as our company has evolved, and once again, Cypress delivered.” – Bob Carlucci, CEO of R & R Ventures

The Cypress Group acted as exclusive advisor to Gala Holdings International, Inc. and affiliates in the sale of 18 Applebee’s restaurants to a subsidiary of Flynn Restaurant Group. The restaurants are located in San Francisco’s East Bay as well as in central California. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured the transaction, and advised Gala through the closing.

“Cypress was invaluable as an advisor in this transaction. There is much more to a successful transaction than simply finding a buyer and agreeing on a price, and Cypress made all the difference in getting us to the goal line. We had a sophisticated buyer who conducted extensive due diligence. Cypress guided us through this complicated process, which for us, like most operators, was unfamiliar terrain. I am extremely pleased with the outcome, and would recommend Cypress to anyone.” – Anand Gala, President of Gala Holdings International

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Wendy’s in the refranchising of over 400 Company owned restaurants across 9 markets.

These markets included Albuquerque, Austin, Dallas, Hawaii, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Sacramento, and Salt Lake City.

Cypress provided strategic guidance and valuation services, identified potential acquirers, and structured deal terms for Wendy’s.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Salsarita’s in the sale of the Company to the Mississippi Restaurant Group, LLC. The Company retained Cypress to evaluate a variety of strategic options, including the sale of the concept, a partial liquidity event for the ownership group, and raising growth capital for the brand, ultimately electing to sell the company to Mississippi Restaurant Group.

Mississippi Restaurant Group is led by Phil Friedman, the former CEO of McAlister’s Deli. Salsarita’s is a growing independent fast-casual brand serving fresh Mexican cuisine. The company is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina and has over 80 locations throughout the Central and East United States.

“The strength of Cypress’ market knowledge and transaction execution was a true asset to our company throughout this process. Through the dedicated services of The Cypress Group, their long-standing relationships, and knowledge of the restaurant industry, we were able to achieve a milestone transaction on favorable terms. I am extremely pleased with the results of Cypress’ efforts and the manner in which they represented our company throughout the transaction.” – Bruce Willette, Founder & Former CEO of Salsarita’s

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Carolina Restaurant Group, Inc. and its affiliates in the sale of their Wendy's Restaurants located in Daytona Beach and Orlando, Florida to Race Coast Foods, LLC. The Company retained Cypress to examine strategic alternatives for the company including reviewing liquidity alternatives on the franchise and related real estate assets.

Carolina Restaurant Group is one of the largest and most successful franchisees of the Wendy's System operating over 80 units in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida.

"Our situation was very complex and involved a number of different facets that made it very challenging to bring to fruition. Cypress' skill and persistence in managing this process was critical in making this happen. We could not have closed this transaction without their involvement. We are extremely pleased with the results of Cypress' efforts and the manner in which they represented our Company throughout this transaction. We are continuing to utilize Cypress' services in a follow up engagement as we review other financial and strategic alternatives for our company." – Quint Graham, CEO of Carolina Restaurant Group

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Blue Ribbon Restaurants, LLC in the management buyout and financing of Blue Ribbon, led by Elliott Baum, CEO of the Company. The Company retained Cypress to structure the management buyout and to secure the financing to facilitate the acquisition.

Blue Ribbon Restaurants is one of the largest and most successful franchisees of the Famous Dave’s Franchise System, a casual brand serving award-winning BBQ throughout the United States. Blue Ribbon is headquartered in Michigan and operates locations throughout Michigan and Ohio.

“Cypress’ market knowledge and transaction expertise were invaluable throughout this process. It was very clear that The Cypress Group possesses deep and thorough knowledge of the restaurant industry, as well as an extensive network of long-standing relationships. Through their dedicated services, we were able to achieve a milestone transaction on favorable terms. We could not have done this without them. I am extremely pleased with the results of Cypress’ efforts and the manner in which they represented our Company.” – Elliott Baum, CEO of Blue Ribbon Holdings

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive buy-side advisor to Starboard Strategies, LLC in the acquisition of Wendy's restaurants and related real estate from S & M Foods.

Cypress represented Starboard as the buyer in identifying the opportunity, structuring the transaction, and arranging the financing to complete the transaction.

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Tijuana Flats. The Company retained Cypress to evaluate a variety of strategic capitalization options for the brand.

Tijuana Flats is a culturally driven Mexican fast-casual concept with approximately 100 locations operating in the Southeastern United States.

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive advisor to Charton, Inc. and affiliates in the sale of its Burger King restaurants to GPS Hospitality. The restaurants are located in West Virginia and Ohio.

Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, negotiated the deal structure, and advised the owners of Charton, Inc. throughout the transaction process.

"We were very pleased with both the professionalism and expediency with which The Cypress Group led us through our recent transaction. Clearly a leader in the field of restaurant sales, they provided a working knowledge of the current market buyers and sellers and knew what pathways would lead to an equitable agreement for all parties. We have recommended them to other companies seeking such leadership and have been thanked afterward. Thorough but nimble, professional but still personal attention; I would highly recommend The Cypress Group to the restaurant community." - Matt Herridge, Partner at Charton

The Cypress Group provided valuation services to Noodles & Company.

Noodles & Company is a national brand with nearly 500 locations specializing in noodle-based cuisine from around the world.

The Cypress Group served as the exclusive financial advisor to Carolina Restaurant Group in the recapitalization of their Wendy’s franchise operation and related real estate obligations. The loan was facilitated through RBS Citizen’s restaurant lending group. The recapitalization completed an engagement in which Cypress advised the Company on a number of strategic alternatives, including the sale of a non-strategic market and select real estate assets to position the company for refinancing.

The new facility, which provided CRG with more favorable terms, pricing, and flexibility positions the company to expand its Wendy’s portfolio in its core markets in North and South Carolina. Carolina Restaurant Group is one of the largest and most successful franchisees of the Wendy’s System, operating over 80 units in the Carolinas.

“Our situation was very complicated and complex, involving a strategic and staged approach toward a successful solution. Cypress guided us with excellent and timely advice as we managed multiple transactions within a relatively short and critical timeframe. Cypress’ skill and persistence in managing this process was critical in facilitating our success. We do not believe we could have completed the transaction without their guidance and involvement. We have now used Cypress in multiple transactions and we’ve referred their firm to Wendy’s and other restaurant operators. We would not hesitate to use the firm’s services in the future as we review other financial and strategic alternatives for our company.” – Quint Graham, CEO of Carolina Restaurant Group

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive advisor to GPS Hospitality in the acquisition of 42 Burger King Restaurants in the Atlanta market from Burger King Corporation. Cypress represented Garrett in identifying the opportunity, structuring the transaction with BKC and arranging the financing to complete the transaction. The purchase represents GPS’ initial acquisition in the Burger King ® system. Financing for the GPS acquisition was provided by Infinity Franchise Capital.

"Cypress worked extensively with me on identifying the right opportunity, guiding me through the approval process, and finalizing the transaction structure with BKC and the lender. In a difficult financing environment for a new company, Cypress identified an attractive loan facility which allowed GPS to close the transaction on an aggressive timetable while providing debt capital for future upgrades and capital expenditures. Cypress worked collaboratively with me on all aspects of this process since I engaged their firm and I am quite pleased with the results. I have extended my Engagement with Cypress as we plan to review additional opportunities in the Burger King system" – Tom Garrett, CEO of GPS Hospitality

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Texas Steak, Ltd. and Boddie-Noell Enterprises, Inc. in the sale of their Texas Steakhouse and Saloon concept and its related real estate assets to CB Steaks, LLC, a subsidiary of the parent company Charlie Brown's Steakhouse. Cypress and the company evaluated several alternatives as part of the engagement before facilitating the sale to the parent of Charlie Brown's. The transaction was supported by STORE Capital which provided sale / leaseback financing for the transaction.

The Texas Steakhouse concept was launched in the 1980's in Virginia and has grown to include 19 restaurants in VA, NC and WV prior to the sale. Boddie-Noell is ranked as the 6th largest domestic franchise operator with approximately $400MM in annual revenue. The sale will allow Boddie-Noell to focus on its core QSR restaurant operations as the largest franchisee of Hardee's restaurants in the United States.

"Cypress worked extensively with Texas Steak and Boddie-Noell to find the best solution for our steakhouse concept. There were numerous challenges in completing the transaction including difficult financing conditions for the casual dining segment. Cypress evaluated numerous alternatives and brought multiple buyers to the table for our company to evaluate. Ultimately the Charlie Brown's combination represented the best for Boddie-Noell, the concept, and our long-time employees. We were quite pleased with Cypress' representation and would use their firm for a future transaction.” - Mike Hancock, EVP Boddie-Noell Enterprises

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive advisor to R & R Ventures in the refinancing of its Taco Bell Restaurants and the acquisition of corporate Taco Bell Restaurants in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Cypress represented R & R in identifying the opportunity for the financing, conducting a competitive process, structuring the transaction and managing the closing. The refinancing will be used to retire existing debt, fund the acquisition and provide additional liquidity for new unit development and image upgrades.

R & R is owned by Robert Carlucci, a 25+ year veteran of the Taco Bell system.

"Cypress' services were invaluable in understanding the details of the debt markets, the most competitive lenders and the alternatives available. We were able to take advantage of a favorable credit environment to lower our debt service and secure new development capital. As we worked through the recapitalization, an acquisition opportunity surfaced requiring a major pivot on the debt engagement. Cypress and our new lender, RBS, worked through the changes on the loan request and managed to close the transaction on time. Cypress' knowledge of the Taco Bell system and their relationship with the lender community were invaluable to our company. We have utilized Cypress on numerous occasions as our company has evolved. Once again, Cypress delivered." - Robert Carlucci, CEO, R & R Ventures

Cypress served as exclusive advisor to Burger King Corporation and its franchisees through our tailored Franchisee Advisory Program, providing financial support for the overall Burger King franchise system.

Sponsored by the franchisor, our assistance for the system as a whole encompassed all of our comprehensive services including balance sheet restructuring, stakeholder negotiations, capital raising, and sale of assets.

Cypress served as exclusive advisor to Arby’s Restaurant Group and its franchisees through our tailored Franchisee Advisory Program, providing financial support for the overall Arby's franchise system.

Sponsored by the franchisor, our assistance for the system as a whole encompassed all of our comprehensive services including balance sheet restructuring, stakeholder negotiations, capital raising, and sale of assets.

The Cypress Group acted as the exclusive advisor to Concord Hospitality, Inc. and affiliates in the sale of its Applebee's restaurants to ACON Franchise Holdings, LLC. The restaurants are located in 9 states, including NE, KS, MO, and WY in the Midwestern to western region, TX and OK, and the Gulf Coast region of FL, AL, and MS.

In addition to the enterprise transaction, Cypress also structured a transaction to sell Concord's its fee-owned properties in a Sale/Leaseback transaction to STORE Capital.

Cypress represented Concord in the valuation of its enterprise and real estate assets, identifying potential acquirers, structuring the transactions, and providing guidance through the closing. The purchase represents ACON's initial acquisition in the Applebee's system.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to BW Investments in the sale of its Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants to BWW Corporation. The restaurants are located in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, negotiated the deal structure, and advised the owners of BW Investments throughout the transaction process.

"The Cypress Group and our company got together through a recommendation. I am so glad my friend told me about them. They were a "head and shoulders" above anyone else I spoke with at the time. Not only did we receive the terms we were looking for, they were also a first class no bs operation. Dean and his professionals analyzed our business in terms we had not thought of, which added significant value to our transaction. I consider the Cypress Group to be the best in their field." - Bill Welter, CEO of BW Investments

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to S & B Wilson, Inc. in the sale of its 11 Burger King restaurant operations and related real estate to GPS Hospitality. The restaurants are located in the Northeast Atlanta suburbs along with the Gainesville, Georgia market. Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured the deal terms, and advised S & B Wilson, Inc. throughout the transaction process.

“We began our relationship with Cypress following an unsuccessful attempt to sell our restaurants on our own. We retained Cypress then and they’ve advised us since. Through the financial crisis, Burger King highs and lows, and other situations, Carty Davis has provided sound advice, emphasizing patience when our valuation could be compromise. As the Burger King brand rebounded and the financial markets improved, Cypress advised us that the timing was right. They identified GPS, who closed on an accelerated time table, under the terms agreed and made the process go quite smoothly. I could not be more pleased with Cypress and would strongly recommend their firm to any of my long time Burger King associates.”

– Sally Wilson, Owner of S & B Wilson, Inc.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor in the sale of SDI's restaurant operations and related real estate property to Rubyhill Ventures. SDI operated a total of 11 locations in the Denver, CO market. This transaction represents Rubyhill Ventures first investment in the Sonic system.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to e Lanes in the sale of its Texas restaurant operations. The 10 Dallas based restaurants were acquired by MUY Hamburger Partners. MUY Hamburger Partners is a large, multi-brand franchisee, operating 314 Pizza Hut restaurants, 172 Wendy’s, and 76 Taco Bells.

“When we elected to sell our Dallas units and exit the Wendy’s brand market, we chose Cypress for their expertise in the Wendy’s system. Cypress and their professionals have been an invaluable resource in helping us navigate the intricacies of the Wendy’s process and ultimately guiding us to a successful close.”

– Chuck Morneau, e Lanes Owner, Belmont Capital CFO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Mega Operations in the sale of its restaurant operations to Carrols Restaurant Group. The 9 restaurants are located in New Jersey. Carrols Restaurant Group owns and operates more than 700 Burger King restaurants across 16 states.

“The Cypress group has proven to be way more effective and efficient than I could have hoped for and has my highest recommendation.”

– Michael Schick, Mega Operations CFO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Great Lakes Dining in the sale of its restaurant operations to JIB Management. JIB is a large, multi-brand franchisee, operating 219 Jack in the Box restaurants, 72 TGI Fridays, 37 Denny’s, 6 El Pollo Locos, 5 Corner Bakeries, and 4 Sizzlers.

“Jim and his team are the utmost industry professionals and a pleasure to work with.”

– Bill Pabst, The Cypress Group Principal

“We were very impressed with the strategic guidance and overall professionalism displayed by the Cypress team. The Cypress Group truly played a crucial role helping us navigate the complicated M&A marketplace, negotiate favorable deal terms, and achieve such successful results, leaving all parties involved extremely pleased with both Cypress’ performance and the outcome of the transaction. We would highly recommend their firm to anyone looking to sell their business.”

– Jim Sutika, Great Lakes Dining CFO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to First Sun Management in the sale of its 13 Alabama restaurant operations to Wendy’s of Bowling Green. Wendy’s of Bowling Green is an active Wendy’s franchisee, operating 53 restaurants in Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

“This successful transaction enabled First Sun to accomplish its objectives, including maximizing the long term value of our real estate with favorable tax implications for all stakeholders. In addition, Cypress managed a favorable post-sale recapitalization, positioning our Company for future growth. The Cypress and First Sun teams worked very well together on a tight time frame with multiple buyers, lenders, and landlords. We were pleased with their services and would highly recommend their firm.”

– Joe Turner, First Sun Management Founder & CEO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to First Sun Management in the sale of its 15 North Carolina restaurant operations to Carolina Restaurant Group. Carolina Restaurant Group is an active Wendy’s franchisee, operating 82 restaurants in North and South Carolina.

“This successful transaction enabled First Sun to accomplish its objectives, including maximizing the long term value of our real estate with favorable tax implications for all stakeholders. In addition, Cypress managed a favorable post-sale recapitalization, positioning our Company for future growth. The Cypress and First Sun teams worked very well together on a tight time frame with multiple buyers, lenders, and landlords. We were pleased with their services and would highly recommend their firm.”

– Joe Turner, First Sun Management Founder & CEO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to First Sun Management in the recapitalization of its remaining business, consisting of 18 Wendy’s restaurants located in Georgia and South Carolina.

“This successful transaction enabled First Sun to accomplish its objectives, including maximizing the long term value of our real estate with favorable tax implications for all stakeholders. In addition, Cypress managed a favorable post-sale recapitalization, positioning our Company for future growth. The Cypress and First Sun teams worked very well together on a tight time frame with multiple buyers, lenders, and landlords. We were pleased with their services and would highly recommend their firm.”

– Joe Turner, First Sun Management Founder & CEO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Wendy’s Restaurants of Rochester, Wendy’s of Ft. Wayne, Western Reserve Restaurant Management, Wendy’s of Lorain, CC Restaurant Management, and Great Lakes Restaurant Management in the sale of 113 Wendy’s restaurants. The restaurants were sold as 5 markets: Rochester, Buffalo, Albany, Ohio, and Indiana.

“Cypress played a crucial role in the sale of our large portfolio of Wendy’s restaurants. I must extend my sincerest gratitude to Bill Pabst and the rest of the team for a job well done. Their strategic guidance was imperative in negotiating favorable terms and achieving such successful results. I was incredibly pleased with Cypress’ performance and overall professionalism, and would highly recommend them to anyone looking to sell their business.” – Dick Fox, Wendy’s Restaurants of Rochester & Affiliates CEO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Southeast Restaurant Group in the acquisition of the corporately-owned Taco Bell restaurants, related real estate, and development rights in the New Orleans metropolitan area.

SRG, in combination with its sister company, KFK Group, currently operate restaurants, hotels, and other real estate ventures in seven states with hallmark brands such as Westin, Holiday Inn, TGI Friday’s, and now Taco Bell. The purchase of the Taco Bell assets marks SRG's initial expansion into the QSR segment.

"The Cypress Group aided SRG in identifying and competitively securing these restaurants and real estate assets in our home market. They also supported our approval process and other negotiations with the franchisor. From the initial stages of the transaction through closing, we could not have been more pleased with the result of their efforts." - Elie Khoury, President & CEO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Porter Apple in the sale lease back of its Applebee’s restaurants. The restaurants are located in South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa.

STORE Capital, based in Arizona, is one of the largest and fastest-growing net-lease REITs in the United States.

The Cypress Group is serving as exclusive advisor to Buffalo Wild Wings in the refranchising of approximately 80 Company-owned restaurants across 5 markets.

The 4 U.S. markets include: Pennsylvania/New Jersey, Greater Washington D.C., Northeast U.S. (NY, MA, RI, CT), and South Texas. Additionally, BWW is looking to refranchise all of its Company-owned restaurants in Canada.

Cypress is providing strategic guidance and valuation services, identifying potential acquirers, and structuring deal terms for Buffalo Wild Wings.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Le Duff America in the refranchising of 29 Company-owned la Madeleine Country French Café restaurants in 4 core markets; Atlanta, Austin, Houston, and Louisiana.

The first group of stores, consisting of the 26 restaurants in the Austin, Houston, and Louisiana markets, has been awarded and sold to HZ LM Casual Foods, marking the organization’s entrance into the la Madeleine system.

The remaining 3 restaurants in Atlanta were awarded and sold to R. Hakim Corp, an existing la Madeleine franchisee. Cypress provided strategic guidance and valuation services, identifying potential acquirers, and structuring deal terms for Le Duff America.

“The Cypress team added significant value in every step of our refranchising process. From the planning, to the evaluation, to eventually what matters most, the selection of top notch franchisees, we got the best advice and support we could have hoped for. All this in record time as well, which is even more appreciated. Cypress delivered a top notch process.” - Olivier Poirot CEO Le Duff America

The Cypress Group is serving as exclusive advisor to Noodles & Company in the refranchising of certain Company-owned restaurants across the United States.

To date, the released markets include North Carolina and Tennessee/Virginia.

Cypress is providing strategic guidance and valuation services, identifying potential acquirers, and structuring deal terms for Noodles.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Cascade Beef, Inc. in the sale of its Arby's restaurants and to US Beef Corporation. The restaurants are located in Idaho and Washington.

US Beef Corp, the largest Arby's franchisee and one of the largest franchisee organizations in the world, currently operates more than 330 Arby's restaurants over 8 contiguous Midwest and Western states.

Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured the deal terms, and advised Cascade Beef throughout the transaction process.

"I must extend my sincerest gratitude to Dean and the rest of his team for a job well done. Cypress played a crucial role in the sale of our Arby's restaurants, with their overall professionalism and strategic guidance being pivotal throughout the entire process. I am incredibly pleased with Cypress' performance and would highly recommend them to anyone looking to sell their business." - Richard Riva, CEO, Cascade Beef, Inc

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to S&P Associates, LLC in the sale of its 15 Wendy's restaurants located in the Jacksonville and Orlando, Florida DMAs.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to S&P Associates, LLC in the sale of its 15 Wendy's restaurants located in the Jacksonville and Orlando, Florida DMAs.

Cypress provided valuation services, identified potential acquirers, structured the deal terms, and advised S&P Associates throughout the transaction process.

"My selection of Cypress to represent me in selling my Wendy's restaurants was an easy decision. As a longtime franchisee, I knew that Cypress was considered the gold standard of strategic advisors in the restaurant industry, and that they had advised more purchasers and sellers of Wendy's restaurants than anyone in the business. Dan Collins was tireless in pursuing my sale transaction; he has exceptional, longtime personal and professional relationships with most of Wendy's senior management in Columbus and knows all the unique intricacies of getting a Wendy's deal approved and completed. It's well known that Cypress has excellent relationships with not only previous Wendy's buyers and longstanding Wendy's legacy franchisees, but with many other prospective restaurant buyers who would be new to the Wendy's system. The purchaser of my restaurants was making its first investment in the Wendy's system, but Dan already had a solid, trusting relationship with them and knew of their interest in Wendy's from having dealt with them in a previous transaction. Cypress and Dan Collins are fantastic." - Sam Chawkin, Owner, S&P Associates, LLC

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor in the sale of QSR Burger's restaurant operations and related real estate to Ampler Burgers.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor in the sale of QSR Burger's restaurant operations and related real estate to Ampler Burgers.

Ampler Burgers is a new entrant to the Burger King system.

For more information regarding our services and expertise in the multi-unit restaurant industry, please reach us according to the information below.

"For more information regarding our services and expertise in the multi-unit restaurant industry, please reach us according to the information below." - Kirk Robison, Sole Shareholder & CEO QSR Burgers

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to ZAK, LLC in order to design a strategy to restructure the Company through multiple transactions.

Cypress advised in the acquisition of Weaver Enterprises, Inc.'s KFC and Taco Bell restaurants and related real estate in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

Additionally, Cypress arranged the Senior Debt financing for the transaction through Huntington Bank and Sale Lease Back financing for 15 of ZAK's existing fee properties to Stonebriar Commercial Finance.

"The Cypress Group was instrumental in helping us navigate a complex situation in order to achieve our Company's goals. Cypress devised a strategic and staged approach which enabled us to manage multiple transactions all at once, and we believe that their industry insight, negotiating skill, and persistence ultimately made this strategy successful. The guidance we received from Cypress was critical in reaching a successful conclusion, and we would absolutely recommend their services to any multi-unit operator looking for strategic advice on restructuring." - Jason Zakaras, CEO

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to FX4B, LLC in the recapitalization of its Arby’s business, consisting of 47 restaurants located in Arizona.

The Cypress Group is served as exclusive advisor to Wendy’s in the refranchising of approximately 540 Company restaurants across 15 markets in the United States.

These markets included Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, West Palm Beach, Springfield/Albany, Shreveport, Boston, Baton Rouge/Lafayette, Cincinnati, Charleston, Atlanta, New York, Raleigh-Durham, New Orleans, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, and Chicago.

Cypress provided strategic guidance and valuation services, identifying potential acquirers, and structuring deal terms for Wendy’s.

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Fazoli's Restaurants, LLC in the refranchising of a number of Company-owned Fazoli's Restaurants located in 11 states.

UP Properties II, an existing Fazoli's franchisee and affiliate of the Junior Bridgeman Group, acquired all of the refranchised restaurants.

Cypress provided strategic guidance, valuation services, identification of potential buyers, and deal term structuring and negotiation for Fazoli's.

"Dan Collins and the Cypress team were instrumental in the design and execution of a very successful refranchising initiative for Fazoli’s. We began our discussions with Cypress approximately 2 years before finalizing the project. Cypress brought a strategic and collaborative approach to the table and helped us evolve our thinking on the scope of this initiative over time. We received great advice and support through every step of the process leading to a great result for Fazoli’s. We would absolutely use The Cypress Group again and recommend them to others in the restaurant industry with similar needs.” –Carl Howard, President & CEO of Fazoli's Restaurants

The Cypress Group served as exclusive advisor to Liberty Restaurant Group in the sale of its Burger King restaurants located in Missouri and Illinois.

The buyer, Broadway Restaurant Group, is an existing Burger King franchisee, and already operates restaurants in the Midwest U.S.

Cypress provided strategic guidance, valuation services, identification of potential buyers, and deal term structuring and negotiation for Liberty.

“I must extend my sincerest gratitude to Dean and the entire Cypress team for being an invaluable asset as Liberty’s advisor in selling our Burger King restaurants. Successfully closing a deal is far more complicated than merely finding a buyer and agreeing on a price – Cypress’ expertise made a huge difference in helping us navigate the ins and outs of the transaction process and ultimately achieving favorable deal terms for all parties. As with most transactions, we encountered a few hiccups along the way, but Dean and his team were persistent and instrumental in helping us resolve them to the satisfaction of both buyer and seller. Again, I want to thank Dean for all of his advice – we wouldn’t have made it through this without his perspective. We are extremely pleased with Cypress’ performance and would recommend them to anyone.” -Jay Amarosa, CEO Liberty Restaurant Group