Branded Hospitality Expands Investment in Big Chicken with Craveworthy Brands Partnership

Branded Hospitality Ventures strengthens its portfolio as Big Chicken joins Craveworthy Brands’ dynamic roster. 

Branded Hospitality (Branded), a prominent investment and solutions platform in the hospitality and foodservice sector, is celebrating the continued growth of its portfolio brand, Big Chicken, as it becomes part of the Craveworthy Brands family. This strategic move enhances Big Chicken’s market position and underscores Branded’s dedication to investing in innovative, high-growth foodservice concepts. 

Big Chicken, the fast-casual brand founded by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal, has gained attention for its bold flavors and operational excellence. As the brand transitions under Craveworthy Brands, its growth prospects are set to accelerate. Jimmy Frischling, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Branded Hospitality, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Big Chicken’s growth trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. As an investor, we’re excited to see the brand gain even more momentum with Craveworthy Brands, a group that shares our vision for scaling innovative and high-performing restaurant concepts.” 

The collaboration with Craveworthy Brands not only validates Big Chicken’s potential but also aligns with Branded’s broader strategy of supporting category-defining brands. Recently, Branded itself announced a strategic partnership with Craveworthy, solidifying its role as a catalyst for restaurant innovation and operational excellence. Frischling added, “Craveworthy Brands has proven itself as a powerhouse in restaurant brand development, and their investment in Big Chicken is a testament to the brand’s immense potential. We look forward to seeing what’s next for Big Chicken and continuing to support its evolution.” 

Founded by Shaquille O’Neal, Big Chicken combines his childhood favorites with trending flavors, offering a menu that includes crispy chicken sandwiches, popcorn chicken, chicken tenders, and the indulgent Big Cookie ice cream sandwiches. With locations in arenas, stadiums, airports, cruise ships, and major cities like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Seattle, and New York, Big Chicken has established itself as a notable player in the fast-casual dining scene. 

Branded Hospitality and the Partnership

Craveworthy Brands, the parent company of a diverse array of restaurant concepts, including Bd’s Mongolian Grill, Dirty Dough, Fresh Brothers Pizza, and The Budlong Southern Chicken, is known for revitalizing legacy brands and nurturing emerging ones. The company’s approach blends the individuality of its brands with a shared culture of collaboration, creating “Craveworthy experiences” across its portfolio. 

Branded Hospitality’s ongoing mission is to provide emerging and established brands with the capital, expertise, and strategic partnerships they need to thrive in an evolving industry. With this latest development, both Branded and Big Chicken are poised for exciting new chapters in the dynamic world of hospitality and foodservice.