Doherty Enterprises, which operates more than 160 restaurants in four states, has acquired 21 Applebee’s restaurants in the New York City metro area from fellow Applebee’s franchisee, Apple Metro. The New Jersey-based company has been an Applebee’s franchisee since 1993 and owns and operates 104 locations in New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Georgia.
Doherty also owns and operates Panera and Chevys Fresh Mex locations, as well as its own concepts, Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Spuntino Wine Bar. According to the company, this acquisition will move the company to 25th out of the top 200 franchisees in the U.S., according to Restaurant Finance Monitor.
“This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in our company’s journey and aligns with our strategic vision for growth and innovation in the restaurant franchise space,” Doherty’s Chairman/CEO Ed Doherty said in a statement. “We are thrilled to welcome the Apple Metro team into the Doherty family, knowing their expertise and commitment will further strengthen our position in the industry.”
Team members currently working in the acquired restaurants will be offered jobs with Doherty, the company noted. According to Apple Metro’s website, the company included 29 Applebee’s restaurants prior to this acquisition, located in New York’s five boroughs and Westchester County.
As of the end of Q3, there are 1,654 franchised Applebee’s restaurants in the U.S.
Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]