Family-owned restaurant franchise business, Karali Group, has acquired authentic Japanese fast-food chain Marugame Udon in the UK, further cementing its presence in the fast-growing restaurant franchise sector, with the assistance of PKF Smith Cooper’s Transaction Advisory Services team.
With over four decades of experience in the QSR and hospitality space, Karali Group operates franchises in the hospitality, fast-food and casual dining sectors, including numerous Burger King, Taco Bell and Crosstown Doughnuts restaurants across the UK and the US.
Under the new partnership with Marugame Udon, Karali Group will lead the expansion of the brand in the UK and Ireland and transition it to a fully franchised model. The Marugame Udon UK estate currently encompasses eight restaurants in London and one in Reading.
Following numerous deals in the franchise sector over the past years, PKF Smith Cooper who provided financial due diligence services along with wider transaction advisory support, were appointed in early January.
Thomas Sinden, Transaction Services Director at PKF Smith Cooper, commented: “The acquisition of Marugame Udon UK business, which has already become a strong and reputable brand, will be a great addition to the Karali portfolio.
Working with the Karali Group as they continue to grow their business has been an extremely rewarding experience, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with the management team, and of course closely watching the growth of the Marugame Udon brand in the UK and Ireland.”
The Transactions Advisory Services team at PKF Smith Cooper is a growing specialist team that operates across all of the firm’s offices, with two new editions so far this year and further plans so continue the expansion.
Karali Group was also advised by Iain Bowler, Rob Chidley, Lucy Bradban, Christian Davison and Sam Salter-Galbraith of Freeths.
