DALLAS — North Texas-based restaurant group Sun Holdings bought Freebirds World Burrito, and says they plan to expand the fast casual restaurant chain.
Sun Holdings, based in Farmers Branch, bought the Austin-based chain known for customizable burritos for an undisclosed amount. The acquisition includes 64 locations in Texas.
Sun Holdings operates more than 1,500 restaurants and stores, including location of Applebee’s, Arby’s, Burger King, Golden Corral, IHOP, McAlister’s, Papa John’s, Popeye’s and Taco Bueno in 27 states.
"Freebirds brings a distinct and vibrant energy to our portfolio. The brand’s commitment to quality ingredients and a customer-centric approach resonates well with us as operators,” said Sun Holdings CEO Guillermo Perales. “We believe we can learn from Freebirds in customer engagement and menu innovation, while bringing our expertise in operations and growth." Perales added, "This acquisition is especially notable for Sun Holdings as it demonstrates our ability to grow not just as a franchisee, but as a brand owner. Freebirds is poised for growth, and we have an ambitious expansion strategy that we are excited to get to work on.”
Freebirds moved their national headquarters to Austin from Emeryville, California in 2015, our sister station KVUE reported at the time, and at that time had more than 100 locations.
Freebirds first opened in Santa Barbara in California in 1987. Their first Texas location in College Station.
